Republican Senate candidate Bernie Moreno has confirmed his support for legislation that would enact a federal ban on abortion, a position that directly opposes Ohio’s newly established constitutional right to abortion access.
The announcement follows recent criticism over Moreno’s comments labeling concerns of pro-choice women voters as “a little crazy,” which has drawn bipartisan backlash in Ohio.
Moreno, a businessman running for U.S. Senate, stated that he is “100% pro-life with no exceptions,” affirming his support for the controversial stance at a town hall event. The candidate, who has openly rejected any exceptions for abortion in cases of rape, incest, or life endangerment, framed his comments about pro-choice voters as an attack on “single-issue voters,” primarily suburban women.
“Especially for women that are like past 50, I’m thinking to myself, ‘I don’t think that’s an issue for you,’” Moreno said, referring to older women who prioritize abortion rights in their voting decisions. The statement has been widely condemned by opponents, who argue that it trivializes women’s health concerns and misinterprets the values of Ohio voters.
Last year, Ohio voters passed a ballot measure securing abortion rights in the state’s constitution, with a 57% majority supporting protections for abortion access up to viability, roughly 24 weeks into pregnancy. The measure was intended to block the enforcement of Ohio’s 2019 heartbeat law, which prohibits most abortions after six weeks. Moreno’s endorsement of a national abortion ban has fueled criticism that he aims to disregard the will of Ohioans, many of whom believe the decision on abortion should be left to the state.
Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown, who is vying for re-election, recently weighed in on Moreno’s position, suggesting it embodies a disregard for Ohioans’ preferences. “When the voters say they want something resoundingly, it’s really arrogant to say, ‘No, I know better than you. I want a national abortion ban,’” Brown said in an interview with NBC4 Columbus.
Moreno has sought to clarify his statements, telling reporters, “I never said women were crazy. I said it’s crazy,” insisting that his comments were misinterpreted. However, the statements have continued to generate a strong response, particularly as abortion remains a critical issue for many Ohio voters heading into the 2024 election.
As the race for Ohio’s Senate seat continues, abortion is expected to play a central role, with Moreno’s statements and policies highlighting the contrasts between his platform and the will of Ohio voters expressed at the ballot box.
