With the GOP desperate to increase enthusiasm in their base for the midterm elections, Republicans in more than a half-dozen races that could determine control of Congress are weaponizing abortion against incumbent Democratic senators, Politico reported on Wednesday.
Even though the issue is garnering not nearly as much attention as other topics in the elections campaigns, anti-abortion groups have made it a major part of their focus in such key states as Ohio, Florida, Missouri, Indiana, West Virginia and North Dakota.
Republicans are particularly targeting Democratic incumbents as supporters of late-term abortion and taxpayer funding for Planned Parenthood.
"It is very clear that there is a sizable pro-life base that can deliver victories on the margins," said Susan B. Anthony List President Marjorie Dannenfelser, who added that enthusiasm among anti-abortion voters is much higher compared with 2012, when the red-state Democratic senators won their seats.
The GOP said the issue can give a significant boost to West Virginia, North Dakota, Indiana and Missouri — red states that voted for Trump but have Democratic senators.
As part of the efforts of the pro-life movement, the Susan B Anthony List Pro-Life Court Coalition is in the midst of sponsoring a seven-state, 32-stop tour and recently launched a $1.6 million advocacy campaign, according to WTRF.
Democrats, however, contend that Republicans hoping to motivate voters on abortion are misreading an electorate, even in red states, that is energized about issues such as abortion rights and access to reproductive services, Politico reported.