Anti-abortion advocates test contrasting strategies in Missouri and Virginia

Anti-abortion advocates are testing contrasting strategies in Missouri and Virginia ahead of Nov. 3 ballot measures, pairing a campaign backed by prominent Republicans in Missouri with a locally organized effort led by advocacy groups, physicians, and churches in Virginia.

The campaigns could offer lessons for anti-abortion groups, which have struggled to win statewide abortion votes since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. But their goals differ. Missouri advocates are seeking to repeal a constitutional amendment voters approved two years ago, while Virginia opponents are working to keep a new amendment out of their state constitution.