The pro-life movement is in jeopardy. Can it pull through?

Published July 1, 2026 12:59pm ET | Updated July 1, 2026 12:59pm ET



It was easy for activists to unite around ending abortion when the most pressing concern was overturning Roe v. Wade. Now, with many of the movement’s leaders warning that the cause is in dire straits, pro-life activist groups are planning the next steps.

As of today, only 13 states have abortion bans in effect, all with exceptions for the life of the mother, and 10 states have gestational limits of varying lengths. California is one of 18 states with legal protection for abortion up to fetal viability, which is around 22 to 24 weeks. The final nine states, as well as Washington, D.C., have legal protection for abortion up to birth.

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