August 12, 2008
South Dakota Vote Draws Attention
by Amy Merrick
The Wall Street Journal
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Two years after a strict abortion ban here was overturned by voters, backers have brought a similar measure -- but one laced with complexities that could bode well for its passage, and ultimately could bring about the challenge to Roe v. Wade desired by abortion foes nationwide.
The referendum has sparked a door-to-door battle to persuade voters that is gaining national attention. Proponents and foes of the ban aim to raise millions of dollars for ads and other campaign expenses.
Groups opposing the ban are planning an event Tuesday in Washington, D.C., that will feature the leaders of the American Civil Liberties Union, Planned Parenthood Federation of America and NARAL Pro-Choice America. Supporters of the ban are gathering endorsements from conservative leaders, such as Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, an influential lobbying group.
"While South Dakota accounts for only 0.1% of all abortions, it has a potentially disproportionate effect on public policy, because people are seeking to create a vehicle to overturn Roe," says Sarah Stoesz, president and chief executive of Planned Parenthood for Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.
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