Minnesota Governor Tim Walz took center stage on “Fox News Sunday” where he ardently defended his state’s notably progressive abortion law amidst a landscape of increasing national debate. This Minnesota abortion law allows late-term abortions even if a woman is 9 months pregnant. And if the baby is born alive which many babies are, the doctors are not obligated to provide life-saving care. Tim Walz argues the bill is necessary for women to decide on their bodies.
Minnesota’s Controversial Abortion Law
During a challenging interview, Governor Tim Walz defended his state’s abortion legislation, which permits procedures without limitation up to birth. Host Shannon Bream questioned the governor about the potential national implications. Walz responded by advocating for the restoration of Roe v. Wade, positioning the law as a return to women’s control over healthcare.
Walz emphasized the legislation places decision-making solely with women and healthcare professionals, stating, “What we did is restore Roe v. Wade; we made sure that we put women in charge of their health care.”
Voters react to Gov. Tim Walz claiming abortion is a 'basic human right' https://t.co/Eqti5VuY0W
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 2, 2024
Debate Over Restrictions and Protections
The debate intensified when Walz was pressed on the law’s removal of protective clauses for infants born alive post-abortion attempts. Critics argue this change could lead to ethical and medical concerns, while supporters claim it aligns with prioritizing women’s health decisions. Walz dismissed allegations about late-term abortion unrestricted permissibility, clarifying that the claims have been debunked by fact-checkers.
“The law is very clear. It does not change that. That has been debunked on every occasion,” Walz replied.
Walz accused former President Donald Trump of misrepresenting his stance, yet also stated that his administration maintains a clear pro-choice position, describing abortion as a “basic human right.”
In 2023, MN Gov Tim Walz signed laws permitting abortion up to birth with no restrictions and removing life-preserving protections for newly born babies.
Minnesota now allows denying care for infants and the effective completion of abortion after birth.https://t.co/GXPHlkawmc pic.twitter.com/HT6qL9UuAY
— Clarity (@covid_clarity) September 12, 2024
National Impact and Political Ramifications
Walz and Vice President Kamala Harris advocate for safeguarding abortion rights nationwide, opposing movements to enforce a federal ban. The pair call for the restoration of the Roe precedent, viewing it as a fundamental American right.
‘Look, the vice president and I have been clear, the restoration of Roe v. Wade is what we’re asking for,’ Walz replied.
With Minnesota’s abortion law at the forefront, the nation watches closely, as such policies could influence broader legislative battles. For many conservative and patriotic Americans, the discussion raises significant questions about individual rights versus ethical governance.