Here's how Wisconsin leaders, politicians and others are reacting to the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade
The U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and eliminating a constitutional right to abortion sparked reaction across Wisconsin on Friday, with abortion opponents applauding the ruling and those in support of reproductive rights decrying it.
"A victory for unborn babies!" tweeted Republican gubernatorial candidate and former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch.
"The Supreme Court just struck down Roe v. Wade. There is no reason to put women in danger and take us back in time. Congress needs to act now, enough wasting time," tweeted Democratic U.S. Senate candidate and Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes.
A majority of the justices determined that neither the text of the Constitution nor the nation's history provided a right to end a pregnancy. Associate Justice Samuel Alito wrote the opinion for a 6-3 majority.
The decision means an immediate halt to abortion in Wisconsin, setting the stage for the state's 1849 ban to take effect.
Below is what leaders at the national, state and local levels had to say Friday. This story will be updated.
U.S. Senators and candidates
Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin:
An activist majority of the Supreme Court has overturned Roe and nearly 50 years of precedent, taking away the constitutional rights of American women to make their own personal choices about their body, their health, and their family. Republicans have taken Wisconsin women back to 1849 and it is Republicans who want to keep us there with support for having politicians interfere in the freedoms of women who will now have fewer rights than their mothers and grandmothers have had for decades. I ask people to join this fight with their voices and their votes because we will not be taken back, we will move forward.
Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson:
Today is a victory for life and for those who have fought for decades to protect the unborn. For almost fifty years the decision of nine unelected Justices have prevented a democratically derived consensus on the profound moral issue of abortion to be formed. This decision will now allow that democratic process to unfold in each state to determine at what point does society have the responsibility to protect life. Hopefully, the debate will be conducted with sincerity, compassion, and respect for the broad range of views that people hold.
(Democratic candidates are looking to challenge Johnson in the November election. A primary is scheduled for Aug. 9.)
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alex Lasry:
The Milwaukee Bucks executive called the decision "a direct assault on women’s rights. Sadly, today will be remembered as one of the darkest days in the history of the Court, as women will die as a result of this destructive decision by these Trumpian Justices."
“I'm furious and incredibly disappointed, not only for my wife and daughter, but for all women in Wisconsin and across the country," added Lasry, whose wife, Lauren, is chief of staff at Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin.
“The Republican Party has embraced extremism, and they have gone too far. We must eliminate the filibuster and undo this attack on the fundamental and essential freedoms of women. This restriction on abortion care will harm women across the country, especially low-income and women of color. This is setting an incredibly deadly precedent across our nation."
Democratic candidate Mandela Barnes:
Barnes issued a statement that referenced his mother LaJuan Barnes, who terminated her first pregnancy because of genetic abnormalities that were detected in the fetus. “Like it does for so many Americans, this decision hits close to home for me. I might not be here today if Roe v. Wade hadn’t allowed my mother to make the best decision for her health and safety.
“This decision will punish women and cost people their lives. The American people deserve elected leaders who will go to the mat to protect our basic freedoms and that’s what I intend to do. It’s past time to abolish the filibuster and make Roe the law of the land.”
State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate:
Godlewski said in a statement that "millions of women and families in Wisconsin and across America are waking up to this devastating news: we no longer have the right to make our own health care decisions." She urged people to mobilize "to take back our rights and freedoms," and claimed "Ron Johnson and the Republicans won’t stop until abortion is banned, doctors are criminalized, and women are punished in every corner of America."
Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson, a Democrat running for U.S. Senate:
"Today the Supreme Court’s extremist majority showed its true colors — trading away basic rights and freedoms for a backwards, dystopian vision that the majority of Americans DON’T want."
Nelson added: "With Wisconsin’s 1849 criminal abortion ban still on the books, we need bold, immediate action in the U.S. Senate to protect women’s lives. Democrats must end the filibuster, codify a national right to abortion, and expand the Supreme Court."
Wisconsin Gubernatorial candidates
Democratic Gov. Tony Evers:
"This is an unfathomably grim day for our state and our country. I am heartbroken — for the millions of Wisconsinites and Americans the U.S. Supreme Court has abandoned and for our country and our democratic institutions. This is an absolutely disastrous and unconscionable decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, the consequences of which I hoped to never see again in my lifetime. I know many across our state and nation are scared — worried about their own health and about the health and safety of their family members, friends, and neighbors, who could very soon see the ability to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions stripped from them. My heart breaks for them, I grieve for them, and I pray for their strength and courage in the days ahead.
"Our work to do the right thing for the people of this state must continue. We will fight this decision in every way we can with every power we have. As people in Wisconsin and across our country make their voices heard in the days and months ahead, we will do so peacefully and without violence. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again today: I will never stop fighting to make sure that every single Wisconsinite has the right to consult their family, their faith, and their doctor to make the reproductive healthcare decision that is right for them, and without interference from politicians or members of the Supreme Court who don’t know anything about their life circumstances, values, or responsibilities."
(Republican candidates are looking to challenge Evers in the November election, with the primary in August.)
Republican candidate for governor Tim Michels:
“It is important that we continue to compassionately work on winning hearts and minds. We need to build a world that is safer for all, a world where better education is provided, and an economy that allows for all to prosper. Life must always be protected. We should not demonize those who don’t believe that, but rather redouble our efforts to show how they can provide a high quality of life for their children.”
Republican candidate for governor Rebecca Kleefisch:
"Now the abortion debate goes back to states like Wisconsin, where it always belonged. As a state we must hold firm for the voiceless and protect their right to life — and that means enforcing the laws we have on the books. I remain committed to my 100% pro-life stance.
“One day, we will all look back on Roe v. Wade as one of the U.S. Supreme Court’s most egregious cases that allowed the killing of more than 60 million babies over nearly half a century. We must look to a future where we value life and support moms and babies.”
Republican candidate for governor Kevin Nicholson:
"The Constitution was designed to protect Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. The issue of abortion has been returned to the American people, where it should have always been. Our goal should be a world without abortion, in which innocent life is protected and celebrated for what it is – a gift from God. Life begins at conception, and we must do everything we can to preserve innocent life. I’m honored to be the only candidate for Governor of Wisconsin that’s been endorsed by both Pro-Life Wisconsin and Wisconsin Family Action PAC. As Governor, I will commit to protecting innocent life — which includes ending state funding of Planned Parenthood and supporting existing pregnancy resource centers around our state."
State attorney general candidates
Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul:
"Roe v. Wade transformed America. For two generations, it protected women’s freedom and health.
"Today’s decision in Dobbs reverses that progress, taking us backwards almost 50 years. It leaves women less free and at greater risk of suffering harm to their health during pregnancy.
"We must now turn to Congress, state courts, and state legislatures. Our office is reviewing today’s decision and will be providing further information about how we intend to move forward next week. We are at a crossroads for the future of reproductive freedom, and we need elected officials to step up and protect access to safe and legal abortion."
(Republican candidates will compete in the Aug. 9 primary for the opportunity to challenge Kaul in November.)
Republican attorney general candidate Adam Jarchow
“I applaud the court for protecting innocent life. Unlike the lawlessness of our failed Attorney General, Josh Kaul, I will uphold Wisconsin law. As a father of two, I’ve been blessed with the miracle of children and I will vigorously defend the right to life. I’m proud to be 100% pro-life and have the endorsement of Wisconsin Right to Life.”
Republican AG candidate and Fond Du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney
"It is up to the legislature to make the laws and for district attorney’s to enforce the rule of law, not pick and choose when to do so. The Fond du Lac County District Attorney’s Office will continue our mission of enforcing the rule of law. This mission now includes enforcing Wisconsin’s abortion ban based on today’s United States Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe vs. Wade, making abortion a state issue.
"The abortion debate is an emotional topic for many, which has resulted in acts of domestic terrorism and acts of political violence. We will also vigorously prosecute threats or acts of violence against any interested individuals or organizations. Political violence, intimidation, or threats have no place in our society. I implore everyone to have healthy dialogue and to remain peaceful."
Congressional delegation
Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald:
"The decision is a major victory for the pro-life movement and the unborn. Roe v. Wade was wrongly decided, and the court rightfully disposed of the egregious precedent it set," said Congressman Fitzgerald. "We have fought long and hard to protect the right to life of those who cannot defend themselves. Today, that work has paid off, but now we must begin working to ensure life is protected at the state and national level."
Democratic U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore:
“This is a terrifying day, because the Supreme Court has turned its back on precedent to roll back individual rights and liberties. Today’s ruling is not only the end of the federal right for women to have control over their bodies, but also demonstrates the Court is very likely to take away other personal liberties from Americans. This decision has made the lives of women and girls more tenuous, dangerous, and restricted.
"If you don’t care about abortion, you should! This decision goes beyond reproductive rights – it’s about the personal freedoms now at risk because of a partisan, extremist Supreme Court.
Republican U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman:
"The Supreme Court made the correct and much-needed decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Legality of abortions is now turned back to the states. It is important for America to remember, when ultrasounds were practically unheardof, 47 states had made abortion illegal. Now, with accurate ultrasounds, it is clear to all Americans that unborn children are human beings. We will see where the public and churches stand.
“Over the years, millions of children have had their dreams stolen before seeing the light of the day. But today marks a brighter future for the hearts and minds of unborn children, women, and families.
“I commend the six Justices who voted to overturn Roe for having the courage to base their decision on sound legal principles rather than a fashionable line of thinking that rules academia, Hollywood, and the mainstream media.”
Republican U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil:
“I’m proudly pro-life. Today’s decision will bring this important issue back to the states. This is a great victory for life.”
Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher:
"The power to make abortion law should have always rested with elected officials, not the Supreme Court. Today's decision correctly returns this authority to legislatures and gives the American people a direct say in the way abortion is governed in their state. This is a historic ruling that will undoubtedly protect millions of unborn lives.
"While reasonable Americans may disagree on this issue, we should all accept and understand that violence and criminal conduct are an unacceptable response to this decision. In the past six weeks, churches have been put on high alert, pro-life centers - including one right here in Wisconsin - have been vandalized, and a man attempted to assassinate a Supreme Court Justice. We now have groups calling for riots and 'a night of rage.' Regardless of where one falls on this debate, its incumbent upon us all to ensure the events of the past six weeks are not repeated in the days ahead."
Democratic U.S. Rep. Ron Kind:
"For nearly half a century, women have been able to make personal decisions about their reproductive health, their lives, and their futures without interference from the government. Removing this fundamental right will have devastating consequences for women and families across the nation.
"Today's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade means that millions of women will be living with fewer freedoms than their mothers and grandmothers, and puts every American's right to privacy on shaky ground. We can't go backwards. Last year I voted to codify the rights Roe v. Wade protected and the Senate must act with urgency to do the same."
Democratic U.S. Rep Mark Pocan:
"This decision is awful. Throwing out nearly 50 years of settled law to eliminate fundamental human rights is outrageous and an insult to our democracy, where a significant majority of Americans wanted Roe to stand. I share the sadness, fear, and anger of that majority today.
“This ruling takes Wisconsin back to 1849, criminalizing abortion with no exception for rape or incest. Earlier this week, Governor Evers called the legislature back for a special session to repeal this antiquated and cruel law, but right-wing extremist Republicans gaveled in and out immediately without rectifying this terrible wrong. The deeply personal decision to terminate a pregnancy should be made by individuals and their doctors, not politicians.
“Though this extreme ruling is rooted in misogyny and disproportionately impacts women, it also undermines every American’s right to bodily autonomy and threatens other essential protections for privacy and self-determination. Justice Thomas’s concurring opinion calls on the Court to revisit prior rulings on marriage equality, contraception, and private relationships between consenting adults.
“The fight for basic human rights like abortion doesn't end here. The Senate must codify Roe today and not a day later.”
Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany:
“Today’s landmark ruling is a historic victory for human rights. This decision paves the way for us to protect all life.”
State legislative leaders
Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos:
"Safeguarding the lives of unborn children shouldn't be controversial. Today's decision reaffirms their lives are precious and worthy of protection.
"I agree with the justices in their opinion when they say, 'The Constitution does not confer a right to abortion; Roe and Casey are overruled; and the authority to regulation abortion is returned to the people and their elected representatives.
"I urge those who disagree with the decision to remain peaceful."
Democratic Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer
"Let’s call this what it is: a brazen, political act that rolls back essential human rights. By striking down a precedent of nearly 50 years, the U.S. Supreme Court has sent our country back to the 1970s and Wisconsin back to the 1840s.
"During Governor Evers' special session on protecting reproductive care, we had an opportunity to protect Wisconsinites' access to abortion, but legislative Republicans ignored the call and the will of the people of Wisconsin. Republicans' unwillingness to act is inexcusable, and they will be directly responsible for the negative outcomes of this decision. The Supreme Court's decision to throw out historically enshrined protections and the GOP's inaction will have significant consequences for our friends, families, neighbors, and communities.
"Let me be clear: we will not stop fighting for access to comprehensive healthcare, including abortion. While today hurts, we will not be deterred in our pursuit of reproductive rights."
Republican Senate President Chris Kapenga:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all people are created equal, and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, and among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” These words, from the Declaration of Independence, are also woven into the very fabric of our great Constitution.
“The fundamental role of government in this country, and in this state, is to protect the rights of the individual. These rights are never subservient to government, the masses, or another individual, as seen in other lesser forms of government. Our individual liberties are the foundation to our Republic.
“In light of the United States Supreme Court decision, the fundamental question every person needs to ask is this: At what point does an individual life begin and take on this protection of rights?
“Wisconsin statute specifies that an “unborn child” is a human being from the time of conception until it is born alive. And, if there is a medical issue where the life of the mother is in jeopardy, the life of the mother can be saved. These statutes are now in effect.
“If we breach the established doctrine of individual rights at the point of when life begins, even if the circumstances around that life are less than ideal, or even outright terrible, we infringe upon the rights of that individual and it becomes a dangerous world where government decides who is worthy of living.
“Unless there is evidence indicating that those who came before us made an error, I will support Wisconsin’s current law that protects the right to Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness for every unborn child.”
Republican Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu:
“This is a massive victory for the sanctity of life in our Nation. The Supreme Court’s long-awaited decision restores lawmaking authority to the states and finally gives Wisconsin voters a voice in how they want to protect the most vulnerable.”
“The surge of violence and on-going threats by pro-abortion extremists will not intimidate or deter us from upholding every individual’s right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
Democratic State Senate Minority Leader Janet Bewley:
"Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision is heartbreaking, but unfortunately expected. The conservatives on the Supreme Court have overturned 50 years of precedent. For years they complained about judicial activism, well now we know it was nothing but a smokescreen to get to their desired results, results that are opposed by the overwhelming majority of this nation’s citizens. A sad day, and a harbinger of what might be in store in the future. What is next? The right to marry? The right to contraceptives?
State political parties
Paul Farrow, Republican Party of Wisconsin chairman and Waukesha County executive:
"Today’s Supreme Court decision represents a historic victory in the fight to protect the unborn, an affirmation of our Constitution, and the return of policymaking back to the people and our elected representatives, as our Founders intended.
"Republicans have always believed in the sanctity of life – that it is precious and worth defending. As we continue to push for recognition of the value of human life, Republicans will continue to speak up for unborn children and vulnerable mothers and families. We welcome all Wisconsinites who believe in the sanctity of life to join us."
Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler, 1st Vice Chair Felesia Martin, and 2nd Vice Chair Lee Snodgrass:
"Today, the Supreme Court, aided and abetted by anti-abortion extremists in Congress, ripped away abortion access from Americans. Overturning Roe v. Wade directly contradicts the will of the public, advice of countless medical professionals, and decades of settled law. Because of this disastrous decision, Wisconsin’s 1849 abortion ban is now enforceable, and doctors in our state can be put in jail for doing their jobs.
"This is a dark day for our state. We are furious. And we will continue this fight.
"Here in Wisconsin, we must elect Democratic leaders who will fight for the right to essential health care. Governor Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul have been brick walls against Republicans’ war on reproductive health at the state level. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Representatives Gwen Moore, Ron Kind, and Mark Pocan have been fierce defenders and advocates for legislation that would codify abortion protections into federal law.
"Abortion is on the ballot this November. All four Republicans running for governor have advocated for abortion bans that go beyond even the 1849 law on the books. Ron Johnson, who previously called the repeal of Roe v. Wade ‘the correct decision,’ has carelessly told Wisconsinites that if they don’t like the abortion laws in their state they simply ‘can move.’
"The stakes of the 2022 elections couldn’t be higher: Here at WisDems, we’re fighting for the ability of each person to make their own decisions about their body, life, and future.
"At a moment like this, there is power in gathering together — in reminding each other that none of us are alone, that all of us have a voice, and that, together, through massive effort and determination, we can and will defeat these horrendous attacks on our freedoms.
"Tomorrow, our state party convention begins, a gathering that has taken on new weight in this moment. You can find more information about our convention here — wisdems.org/convention — including this link to register to watch online. If you can make it to La Crosse, you can still register and attend – do that here."
Milwaukee leaders
Democratic Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson:
"When long-held rights are taken away, we should be alarmed. Women should have the right to control their own bodies. I am a husband and a father of two daughters, and I am sensitive to what this ruling means for them. Today’s Supreme Court decision is a disappointment.”
Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley:
"I am beyond disappointed in the SCOTUS decision to reverse nearly 50 years of precedent and restrict millions of Americans from the ability to make their own reproductive health decisions. Every single person should have the right to consult their family, their faith, and their doctor to make a reproductive health care decision that is right for them. It is incredibly concerning that women of color, who already see some of the worst outcomes in our health care system, will undoubtedly be the most impacted by resorting to unregulated and unsafe medical procedures.
“Milwaukee County is on a mission to achieve race and health equity, but that can only be achieved when government works to help people get the health care they need, when they need it. This decision is simply a betrayal and a contradiction to that vision and mission. But I am certain this is not the end. I will never stop fighting to defend a women’s right to choose and make their own reproductive health care decisions.”
Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson and supervisors Felesia A. Martin, Liz Sumner, Willie Johnson Jr., Sheldon A. Wasserman, Ryan Clancy, Peter Burgelis and Shawn Rolland
"We are incredibly disappointed in the SCOTUS for violating the sacred covenant between government and the people. When decisions are made that put the health, safety, and freedom of people who can get pregnant across the country at risk, we collectively take a step backward as a nation. We have seen time and time again that reducing access to safe, legal abortions does not reduce the number of abortions that take place, but instead puts people's lives at risk, as these procedures are often done by unlicensed, unskilled providers.
"Milwaukee County's mission to achieve racial and health equity took a major blow today. Wisconsin is now an election away from becoming a place that is significantly less safe for people—particularly low-income people and people of color. With the support of the community behind us, we will continue to advocate for common sense policy surrounding abortion and will lobby the state to pass laws that protect Wisconsinites from being unable to make the medical decision that is best for them. We will continue to fight for progress, as we look to make Milwaukee County the healthiest place for anyone to live, regardless of their race or gender.
Common Council members Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman José G. Pérez, and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic:
Today’s news that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe V. Wade and taken away reproductive freedom for women across the country is heartbreaking and infuriating. This decision now means that women everywhere have less freedom today than they did yesterday. While we have known for weeks that this was a possibility, it does not make the reality of the decision any less difficult to comprehend. Women should have the fundamental right to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions, and the fact of the matter is this decision will negatively impact women everywhere, particularly those in communities of color and low-income communities. We should take time to be angry, sad, confused, and hurt by today’s news, but we must also understand that while today is a devastating blow for the civil rights and human rights of women everywhere, we must keep pushing forward and fighting for what is right and become more active and engaged than we ever have before. Our daughters, granddaughters and future generations of women deserve nothing less.
Advocacy groups
Pro-Life Wisconsin:
Today, June 24, 2022, the most egregious ruling handed down by the United States Supreme Court, Roe v. Wade, has been overturned. The majority opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, penned by Justice Samuel Alito, declares that there is no abortion right to be found in the text of the U.S. Constitution or in the history of our nation. Pro-Life Wisconsin rejoices, for today is a day many pro-life individuals have dreamt of for decades, if not entire lifetimes. Since January 22, 1973, the day on which unfettered abortion was unleashed on our country, millions of Americans have prayed, fasted, marched, and advocated for the lives of preborn children. For nearly 50 years, pro-lifers have spoken out against the atrocity of abortion and proclaimed the truth from the rooftops: that abortion ends a human life.
We thank God for the wisdom and courage of these five justices: Justice Samuel Alito, Justice Clarence Thomas, Justice Neil Gorsuch, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Justice Amy Coney Barret, and Justice John Roberts who have so boldly decided this case, even in the face of great opposition and personal attack. “Abortion is no longer a constitutional right in America, and never really was. The shackles of the Roe/Casey legal regime have been thrown off and now Wisconsin and every other state in our nation is free to ban abortion without exception,” said Matt Sande, Pro-Life Wisconsin Legislative Director."
Wisconsin Right to Life:
"Wisconsin Right to Life celebrates the historic decision from the United States Supreme Court in Dobbs V. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturns the precedents set in Roe V. Wade and Planned Parenthood V. Casey. This is a monumental step toward the protection of all human life, including the most valuable among us, preborn children.
"By overturning Roe and Casey, the Supreme Court emphasized the foundational truth that the right to an abortion does not appear in the United States Constitution. Now, the decision regarding pro-life laws has returned to the states, and Wisconsin is in powerful position to defend preborn life due to our pre-Roe statute, 940.04.
"Gracie Skogman, Wisconsin Right to Life’s legislative director, stated, 'This is a joyful day for the pro-life movement, and it is our moment to affirm our dedication to uplifting and supporting both preborn children and their mothers. The pro-life movement is truly pro-women and pro-babies, and we rejoice at the action we can take to protect preborn children now that Roe has been overturned.'
"Heather Weininger, Wisconsin Right to Life executive director, stated, 'Pro-life advocates have worked tirelessly for decades to protect preborn life from abortion, and today we are overwhelmed with joy to witness Roe V. Wade being overturned. But our work does not end here. We must continue to fight for our state statute to remain unchanged, and we must demand that it be enforced. We must work even harder to advocate for mothers facing unexpected or challenging pregnancies, and provide more life-affirming resources so that intentionally ending the life of a preborn child becomes an unthinkable option.'
"Wisconsin Right to Life will continue to peacefully advocate for the protection of all human life, and mothers facing unexpected or challenging pregnancies. We pause to celebrate this historic decision today, and look forward to continuing our work until each life is protected and cherished."
Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin President and CEO Tanya Atkinson:
The Supreme Court has taken away our constitutional right to abortion. This ruling takes away the freedom to control our bodies and personal health care decisions, giving it to politicians to decide.
Because Wisconsin’s criminal abortion law remains in place, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin has temporarily suspended abortion services until we receive clarification from a court about whether the law is enforceable. Know that we are exploring all legal options.
This news is devastating. Deciding if or when to become a parent is one of the most personal, life-changing decisions people make. You deserve the right to control your own body, life, and future. And access the health care that you need.
Although abortion services are not available in Wisconsin for now, Planned Parenthood’s doors across the state are open and we are here to help patients get the care they need. This includes helping patients access safe abortion care where it remains legal, offering travel assistance, and providing appropriate follow-up care when they return home.
Your health — and the health of the community — is our number one priority.
Planned Parenthood stands for care. And we won't give up. Not now. Not ever.
ACLU of Wisconsin:
"The Supreme Court issued a shameful ruling today overturning Roe v. Wade — the landmark decision recognizing the constitutional right to abortion nearly 50 years ago – and effectively banning abortion in Wisconsin and other states across the country.
"In addition, the ruling, in this case, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, will set off a chain reaction with states banning abortion and criminalizing essential care throughout entire regions of the country.
"Wisconsin had a law on the books banning abortion that was passed prior to Roe v. Wade. The previous law, which was passed in 1849, was unenforceable for nearly a half a century; however, today’s decision will likely allow that law to go back into effect. The practical effect is that abortion care will not be available in Wisconsin starting today.
"Although current Wisconsin Attorney General Joshua Kaul said he would not prosecute abortions in the State of Wisconsin, local prosecutors would have discretion on whether or not they initiate criminal proceedings against physicians who perform abortions. The risk of prosecution, now or in the future, means that physicians will not provide this care."
Diverse & Resilient:
"Diverse & Resilient recognizes that all people have a fundamental right to sexual and bodily autonomy. That includes the right to decide if and when to become a parent and to do so free from harassment and harm.
"It is undeniable that the right-wing forces that have removed abortion rights are very clear in their attack against women, but it isn’t just women impacted by today’s decision. LGBTQ+ people are greatly harmed by this ruling. LGBTQ+ people need access to reproductive health care, including contraception, abortion, assisted reproductive services, HIV care, pregnancy care, parenting resources, and more. Although many people talk about reproductive health as a “women’s issue,” many LGBTQ people—including lesbian and bisexual women, transgender men, two-spirit, intersex, nonbinary and gender non-conforming individuals—can get pregnant, use birth control, have abortions, carry pregnancies, and become parents.
"Our hard worked for and hard-won legal rights as LGBTQ+ people are undeniably linked to reproductive rights movements and have been intertwined with decisions from the Supreme Court over the past 50 years. The same extreme right-wing forces that work to remove reproductive freedom are the same forces seeking to remove transgender rights, marriage equality, adoption rights and more. The overturn of Roe v. Wade sets a dangerous and terrifying precedent for LGBTQ+ people."
Lynn Carey, co-leader of Grassroots Germantown, a community-based group that educates and advocates for democracy and for social and environmental justice:
"While not surprised by the decision because of the extreme Republican court, the reality is that women’s right to freedom related to their own reproductive health has been taken away. Grassroots Germantown is committed to work to elect candidates who support the constitution, will listen to the people and who value our freedoms."
League of Women Voters of Wisconsin Executive Director Debra Cronmiller
"This is a difficult time for people across Wisconsin who now find themselves unsure of what control they will have over their own bodies.
"A majority of Wisconsinites want safe, legal abortions for themselves, their family and friends. This will affect us all, but the barriers will be most staggering for people who are low-income, people of color and those living in rural areas.
"Wisconsin has a law from 1849 that is a nearly total ban on abortion. We cannot idly sit by as our state backslides and courts and elected officials ignore the will of voters.
"The courts should protect our rights. Not take them away–especially after decades of precedent. We now look to our state legislatures and state supreme court justices as the right to an abortion will come down to state-by-state decision making.
"The League will continue to call on our elected officials to represent their constituents. We will advocate, organize and work to ensure abortion access and reproductive freedom for all."
Religious leaders
Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki, Archdiocese of Milwaukee
"As a Church that advances the Culture of Life and as members of a civil society, we welcome the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in the Dobbs case.
"While no doubt we all feel a renewed hope for the future, let us also remember that our struggle to preserve the sanctity of human life is only just beginning. Abortion laws now return to the individual states. Our challenge is to continue to promote that human life begins at conception and needs to be protected at all times.
"The Church will continue to support all women — especially those experiencing unplanned pregnancies where abortion seems like the only or easy solution — by providing the spiritual, emotional and financial support necessary through our parishes, support networks and pregnancy centers.
"I appeal to all in our society to work together to make the thought of abortion not only unthinkable, but also unnecessary.
"More than 63 million children lost their lives to the scourge of abortion. May their souls, and all the souls of the faithful departed, rest in peace."
Wisconsin Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice
"Today is a dark day for our country. For the first time in our history, our Supreme Court, the court of last resort, has taken away a right that Americans have relied on for nearly fifty years, the right to decide for themselves when and whether to become a parent. Make no mistake, in making that decision, the Court has guaranteed that women will die.
"The Wisconsin Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice condemns this abhorrent decision. WI-RCRC Chair Rabbi Bonnie Margulis said, 'As a Jew, I live by the words of the Torah, which teaches us ‘do not stand idly by while your neighbor bleeds’. This means it is my responsibility, and that of all who live by this precept, to do what I can to oppose this decision and to provide what help I can to people whose lives will be at risk because of it.'
"In overturning the 1973 decision Roe v. Wade that legalized abortion, the Supreme Court has turned back the clock to a time when access to abortion care depended on what state you lived in, your economic status, and your ethnicity. In 1965, deaths from illegal abortion accounted for 17% of all pregnancy-related deaths. Women of color were disproportionately affected by lack of access to legal abortion care. Between 1972 and 1974, the mortality rate for women of color was 12 times that of white women.
"Because of an antiquated law on the books in Wisconsin, the decision of the Supreme Court has rendered abortion illegal in our state. Now people will be faced with the untenable choice of continuing an unwelcome pregnancy or having to travel to another state for legal abortion care or seeking an illegal and possibly dangerous abortion here at home.
"The Wisconsin Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice stands with women and all people who may be facing unwelcome or crisis pregnancies. We stand ready to provide whatever assistance we can, as our consciences and the teachings of our faiths require us to do."
Medical groups
Wisconsin Medical Society President Wendy Molaska:
“Today’s decision raises concerns that could result in significant interference with the physician-patient relationship – the sanctity of which is the bedrock of our healthcare system. Defaulting to a law first created in 1849 is not the best path forward. Inevitable confusion over the continued validity of that 19th century law makes proactive legislative action prudent.
“The Wisconsin Medical Society supports legislation that would acknowledge the right of a physician to perform and give advice on this medical procedure – or refuse to do so according to the physician’s training, experience and conscience.
“The health and safety of our patients is our top priority. Wisconsin law should reflect that priority and ensure physicians can have full and frank discussions with patients about their health care without fear of imprisonment.”
Jenny Higgins, director of the UW-Madison Collaborative for Reproductive Equity
"The exact legal status of Wisconsin's 1849 ban will be unknown for some time, but we certainly know, in the meantime, that here in Wisconsin, people will not be able to get clinic-based abortion care as of today. I think that, in the short term, reproductive health care providers are trying to do everything they can to serve their patients, and travel out of state is really the only option for those people to obtain legal abortion or in-clinic legal abortion care.
"Yet, getting to out-of-state care takes a significant amount of money and time. And those clinics are already facing tremendous backlog issues from restrictions in states like Texas and Oklahoma.
"We anticipate, in the short term, poor, if not impossible, access out of state, even to those who can get there. There will be a number of people, right away especially, who cannot obtain desired abortions. Research suggests that people will certainly turn to self-managed abortion services. And in fact, we have evidence that people in Wisconsin are already using self-managed abortion services to some extent, given how difficult access has been in our state for a number of years."
This story will be updated.
Reporter Natalie Eilbert contributed to this story.
Contact Alison Dirr at 414-224-2383 or adirr@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter @AlisonDirr.
