Hundreds of thousands flooded into the nation’s capital for the Women’s March on Washington. The feminists were mostly female, clearly displeased with the new administration, and overwhelmingly pro-choice.
They demanded that the president change his mind on abortion. And he didn’t keep them waiting long for an answer. Trump just reinstated the “Mexico City policy,” that Reagan-era executive order prohibiting American tax dollars from funding abortion abroad.
Almost a rite of passage for presidents, the policy is rescinded by Democrats and reinstated by Republicans. By following suit, Trump just cut off organizations that perform or refer abortions from the $600 million designated annually for family planning around the world. More significant than the money, Trump’s decision indicates where his administration will stand on the issue.
Even though Trump courted the pro-life lobby during the general election, it’s still a bit unclear how he will ultimately govern. He’s flip-flopped on the issue, supporting abortion on demand while a New York celebrity before declaring himself pro-life as an aspiring candidate.
Back in September, Trump signed off on an abortion quid pro quo, promising to nominate pro-life Supreme Court justices and defund Planned Parenthood in exchange for pro-life votes.
Though the “Mexico City policy” wasn’t part of the contract, his signature represents a hefty down payment. Trump made a deal, and so far, he seems good to his word.
It demonstrates that Trump is prepared to honor his pledge while also fueling another political demonstration. Trump’s signature on the executive action further motivates the hundreds of thousands of people who have been marching on Washington and against abortion each year, every year since 1974.
And most importantly, the “Mexico City policy” serves as a banner over the White House, a signal that there’s a pro-life president again.
Philip Wegmann is a commentary writer for the Washington Examiner.
