President Joe Biden celebrated a significant win as Ohio voters rejected an initiative proposed by Republicans to change the state’s constitutional amendment process. The objective of this amendment, known as Issue 1, was to raise the threshold required for passing future amendments. Within the context, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose explicitly linked the proposal to abortion.

Had Issue 1 been approved, supporters of abortion rights would have needed a 60% majority to pass an amendment protecting basic rights up to fetal viability, approximately 22 weeks of pregnancy. Nevertheless, with the rejection of the amendment, a simple majority will now suffice.

President Biden wasted no time in expressing his late-night statement, commending Ohio voters for rejecting the measure and highlighting it as a triumph for women’s reproductive rights and democracy. He underscored that the issue was a direct attempt to curtail women’s healthcare choices and diminish the voices of voters. Furthermore, the administration emphasized its firm focus on state-level endeavors concerning abortion rights, recognizing their pivotal role in women’s rights and healthcare.

The outcome in Ohio is considered part of a broader trend where attempts to restrict abortion rights at the state level have encountered opposition and defeat. Activists are now directing their attention towards upcoming ballot measures and referendums, placing particular emphasis on abortion issues, with the intention of shaping the political landscape leading up to the 2024 elections.