Tuesday’s off-year general election, which will decide the next governors of two states, will feature participation from a number of states, and offer insight into how abortion rights are influencing American politics.
Several states, including Kentucky and Mississippi, have seen gubernatorial races where access to abortion became a prominent topic of debate.
Voters in Ohio will decide on a constitutional amendment that has the support of pro-abortion groups.
Additionally, control of Virginia’s state legislature hangs in the balance, with both parties campaigning on their stance on abortion.
Kentucky Governor Race: Beshear Seeks Second Term
In Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, is seeking a second term in a heavily Republican state. Despite the challenges of running as a Democrat in Kentucky, Beshear aims to secure re-election.
His Republican opponent is Daniel Cameron, who previously served as the state attorney general. Beshear has been vocal about the need for exceptions in the state’s restrictive abortion law, criticizing it as “extremist” for not allowing exceptions in cases of rape and incest.
He has also vetoed a proposal banning abortions after 15 weeks. On the other hand, Cameron supports the existing law and proposes amending it to include rape and incest exceptions.
However, he has faced difficulties in clearly outlining his stance on these exceptions.
Beshear, the son of former Democratic Governor Steve Beshear, narrowly defeated the Republican incumbent Matt Bevin in the previous election.
If Cameron emerges victorious, he would become the first Black Republican governor since Reconstruction.
Read: Video: Missouri Rep. Cori Bush Goes Unhinged On U.S. House Floor Over Tlaib Censure
Ohio Constitutional Amendment: Protecting Access to Abortion Services
In Ohio, voters are deciding whether to amend the state constitution to protect access to abortion services. The proposed measure aims to establish the right to make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions, including abortion, contraception, and fertility treatment.
It also allows for a ban on abortions once the fetus can survive outside the womb, except when the patient’s life or health is in danger.
This amendment follows a previous measure that was rejected by voters, which would have made it more difficult to approve the current proposal. The outcome of this vote will have significant implications for abortion rights in Ohio.
Battle for Control: Virginia General Assembly
The control of both chambers of Virginia’s state legislature hangs in the balance, with Republicans currently holding a narrow majority in the state House and Democrats leading the state Senate. The outcome of this battle could determine the future of abortion rights in Virginia.
If Republicans gain control of both chambers, Governor Glenn Youngkin plans to implement a ban on abortions after 15 weeks, with exceptions for rape, incest, and when the mother’s life is endangered. Democratic candidates have heavily campaigned on their support for abortion rights, highlighting the stakes in this election.
Mississippi Governor Race: Reeves Seeks Reelection
In Mississippi, Republican Governor Tate Reeves seeks reelection against Democrat Brandon Presley, a state utility regulator and cousin of rock ‘n’ roll legend Elvis Presley.
Historically, Democrats held the Mississippi governorship for most of the 20th century, but Republicans have dominated the office in the past two decades. Presley has managed to outraise Reeves with the help of a substantial cash infusion from the national party.
The race has received national attention as it showcases the ongoing shift in Mississippi’s political landscape. The outcome of this race will provide insights into the state’s stance on abortion and its broader political leanings.
Notable Races to Watch
While the aforementioned races take the spotlight, several other races across the country are worth keeping an eye on:
Pennsylvania Supreme Court
The vacant seat on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court holds significance in voting-related cases during the 2024 presidential campaign. Republican Carolyn Carluccio and Democrat Daniel McCaffery are the nominees for this seat. The outcome of this race could shape future decisions regarding voting rights and regulations.
Rhode Island U.S. House District 1
A special election in Rhode Island’s U.S. House District 1 features Democrat Gabe Amo and Republican Gerry Leonard. This district has traditionally voted for Democrats, and the outcome of this race will determine the representative for the remainder of the term previously held by Democratic U.S. Rep. David Cicilline.
Mayoral Races
The mayoral race in Houston attracts attention as 17 candidates compete to replace term-limited Mayor Sylvester Turner. Notable contenders include U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee and state Sen. John Whitmire, both Democrats.
In Uvalde, Texas, where a tragic school shooting occurred last year, the candidates for mayor include Kimberly Mata-Rubio, a former news reporter whose daughter was killed in the shooting. The incumbent mayor of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Joe Ganim, seeks an eighth term, but a state judge has ordered a re-do of the September Democratic primary due to possible ballot stuffing.
New York City Council District 9
Yusef Salaam, a criminal justice reform activist known for being one of the “Central Park Five,” is running unopposed in the New York City Council District 9 race. Salaam’s background and platform make this race noteworthy.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps