Biden discusses abortion access options with Democratic governors

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden told Democratic governors on Friday that he was “considering all alternatives” to protect access to abortion following the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

A day after returning from international summits in Europe, Biden called the decision « tragic » and warned that Republicans could try to enact a nationwide ban on abortion if they regain control of Congress. He urged Democrats to elect at least two more senators so they could create a filibuster exception and codify into law the protections that had been provided under Roe v. Wade.

At least two Democratic senators, Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, blocked efforts to circumvent the filibuster. The party would need the unanimous support of the 48 Senate Democrats and two allied independents, as well as the decisive vote of Vice President Kamala Harris, for the rules to change in the face of strong opposition from the GOP.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has suggested Biden consider having abortions performed at federal facilities like veterans hospitals or military bases in states that restrict abortions.

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said Native American tribes, who have a level of sovereignty over their own lands, could also be valuable partners.

« We are in the process of looking at all the alternatives, » Biden said.

However, he made no announcement. Some activists and Democrats have been frustrated by what they see as an overly cautious approach by the administration, especially as the court ruling has been awaited since a draft leaked nearly two years ago. month.

The June 24 court ruling overturned a 1973 ruling that declared a constitutional right to abortion. Each state will now determine whether the procedure can be performed.

Chris Megerian, Associated Press

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