This is a long email, John. But there is a lot I want to be sure you know. So, please read through!
The Ms. magazine and Feminist Majority Foundation poll by Lake Research Partners found that across nine battleground states (AZ, FL, GA, NC, NH, NV, OH, PA, and WI) abortion and women’s rights are the most important issues for young women voters, ages 18-29, and are highly motivating in determining their vote. Among women voters of all ages in battleground states, abortion and women’s rights are tied with inflation and rising prices. In a post-Roe world, the Equal Rights Amendment is more important than ever.
You know the midterm elections are critical. Please be sure you have a plan to vote. AND, share this email with friends and family — especially if they live in these critical states!
Here is what you need to know.
There are ballot measures in three states (CA, MI, and VT) that will enshrine abortion rights and access in their state constitution. There is a state Equality of Rights Amendment on the ballot in Nevada. And in Kentucky and Montana, Kansas-style amendments would set the stage for additional outright bans.
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California
In our country’s most populous state, Californians are asked to vote YES on Prop 1 — the Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment amends California’s constitution to prohibit interfering with or denying an individual’s reproductive freedom.
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Michigan
In addition to the critical Michigan governor’s race, you should vote YES on Proposal 3 — the Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative adds abortion rights protections to the Michigan constitution.
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Vermont
Voters in Vermont have the chance to amend the state’s constitution to protect the Right to Personal Reproductive Autonomy. Vote YES on Proposal 5!
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Nevada
The ERA movement has a great chance in Nevada this year! Nevadans can vote to add a state Equality of Rights Amendment to Nevada’s constitution. If it passes, Nevada will be the 27th state with an equality cause. Vote YES on Question 1!
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Kentucky
Similar to the ballot measure that was defeated in Kansas, Kentucky’s Constitutional Amendment 2, the No Right to Abortion in Constitution Amendment would declare that there is no constitutional right to abortion. Kentuckians should vote NO!
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Montana
Another anti-abortion measure, the Medical Care Requirements for Born-Alive Infants Measure, will appear on the midterm ballot in Montana. It declares that “infants born alive at any stage of development are legal persons” (whether they are viable or not), and punishing healthcare providers with civil penalties and up to 20 years of jail time if they do not provide medical care. Montana law currently requires medical care only if an infant is viable. Montanans should vote NO on Montana LR-131!
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Read more on these ballot measures in Ms. magazine too.
Let’s make sure extremists know that Kansas was just the beginning. Make sure you have a plan to vote — AND, if you know anyone in any of these states, forward this email!
For equality,
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Eleanor Smeal
President, Feminist Majority Foundation
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