What’s at Stake When Women Vote Against their Own Interests?

Over the past decade, the fight for women’s rights has faced significant setbacks, especially in areas where unity among women could have made a difference. A key moment was in 2016, during Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, which was met with resistance from many, including women. Fast forward to today, and women once again face the challenge of supporting leadership that could protect their legal rights.

The Struggle for Reproductive Rights

One of the most pressing issues is the attack on reproductive rights. In 2022, the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade ended the constitutional right to abortion, a landmark ruling that had stood for nearly 50 years. The ruling shifted the power to regulate abortion to individual states, resulting in 21 states imposing bans or severe restrictions on abortion access as of July 2024. In some states, there are no exceptions for rape, incest, or the health of the mother. Additionally, 2024 has seen the introduction of “personhood” bills that could criminalize the destruction of embryos during in vitro fertilization (IVF), further restricting reproductive options for women.

Contraceptive access is also under threat, with several states proposing restrictions. For instance, Indiana has passed a law limiting contraceptive options for those on Medicaid, while Oklahoma has proposed a bill to ban IUDs and emergency contraception. These legislative moves represent a broader assault on women’s autonomy over their bodies.

Threats to Divorce Rights and Health Care

The rollback of women’s rights is not limited to reproductive issues. Conservatives have also targeted no-fault divorce laws, which allow women to end marriages based on irreconcilable differences. Prominent figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Ohio Senator J.D. Vance have opposed these laws. In Missouri, women seeking divorce must disclose whether they are pregnant, and judges will not finalize divorces during pregnancy, putting women in abusive or unsafe situations at greater risk.

Women’s healthcare access remains another critical area of concern. Research from Harvard reveals that women are less likely than men to receive pain management after coronary bypass surgery, and they often wait longer for treatment in emergencies. These disparities are particularly pronounced for women of color, who face systemic biases in health care. Despite legislative efforts like the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2022, which aims to address health disparities, women continue to face significant challenges in accessing equitable health care. Ensuring that elected officials support comprehensive healthcare policies prioritizing women’s needs is essential for closing these gaps.

Addressing the Gender Wage Gap

The gender wage gap is another persistent issue, with women earning only 82 cents for every dollar earned by men. The disparity is even more pronounced for Hispanic and Black women, who earn just 65% and 70%, respectively, of what white men earn. Achieving pay equity requires collective action and support among women in the workplace. Working together, rather than viewing one another as competitors, can help women secure more opportunities and achieve their goals. By standing in solidarity, women can push for systemic changes that benefit everyone.

The Importance of Unity

The question remains: Why is it so difficult for women to unite in support of their rights? The answer may lie in fear and deeply rooted societal beliefs that discourage change.

However, the stakes are too high to allow fear to dictate decisions. Supporting women’s legal rights through voting and advocacy is crucial for protecting the interests of current and future generations. By coming together, women can create a powerful force for change, ensuring that their rights are upheld and their voices are heard.