Do you remember the day, two years ago, when the Supreme Court threw out reproductive rights, John?

When I saw the push notification on my phone, my eyes grew wide and my heart sank. I immediately read the Dobbs opinion and each paragraph was followed by both disbelief and a stream of profanity.

One day, Americans had a constitutional right to abortion care, then it vanished in a flurry of words the next day. Chaos ensued as abortion bans popped up across the country; people fled to other states for standard medical care; doctors became afraid; rural maternity care dwindled; and, far-right extremists searched for other rights they could strip away.

In Iowa, abortion is still legal during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, but we are waiting for the decision of the Iowa Supreme Court on whether a six-week abortion ban can take effect.

This moment seems bleak, but there is reason for hope. Because, since the end of Roe v. Wade, Americans have rallied to fight for our rights. With grassroots movements in Ohio, Kansa, Florida, and so many other states, we are seeing regular people come together and stand tall for all of our rights.

The movement for reproductive freedom may be on its back foot today, but that doesn't mean we've lost. Each day volunteers, leaders, and voters continually stand up for abortion rights and do the hard work to get abortion on the ballot and to support leaders who will stand for our rights.

I am standing tall for reproductive rights, and I know you are standing with me. Together, we will make a difference in Iowa and the entire United States. Thank you for standing with me.

Stand Tall for All,

J.D.