As several states prepare to vote on abortion rights in the coming year, new polling data suggests the issue may not be as potent a motivator for Democratic voters as it once was. After relying heavily on abortion rights as a central message following the overturning of Roe v Wade, Democrats may find the issue less effective in driving turnout in the 2026 midterm elections.
Shifting Priorities
In 2024, 55% of Democrats indicated that abortion was an important factor in their vote, according to the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). However, by October of this year, that number had fallen to 36%. Interestingly, support for abortion rights among Republicans has remained relatively consistent over the same period. A September poll from the 19th and SurveyMonkey revealed that those most passionate about the issue are voters who want to see abortion banned.
During the 2024 election cycle, abortion rights were widely considered a key advantage for Democrats, particularly in the wake of state-level abortion bans enacted after the 2022 overturning of Roe. Kamala Harris prominently featured abortion rights in her campaign, but despite this focus, Donald Trump won the popular vote and Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress.
Economic Concerns Take Center Stage
The current political landscape appears to be shifting. Melissa Deckman, CEO of PRRI, noted that a constant stream of news events has diverted attention from abortion. “It’s just hard to catch your breath, because every day there’s a new, outrageous thing happening with the administration,” Deckman said. Affordability and the economy have now become primary concerns for voters, and for Democrats, the “health of democracy” is also a significant priority.
Despite the shifting focus, abortion remains a “dealbreaker” for 49% of female voters, according to polling from Emilys List. It continues to be a galvanizing issue in state supreme court elections, which often have the final say on the legality of abortion restrictions.
State-Level Battles Continue
Currently, advocates are working to get abortion rights measures on the ballot in Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, and Virginia. Nevada and Missouri have already confirmed ballot measures related to abortion. Missouri voters previously amended their state constitution to protect abortion rights in 2024, but are now slated to vote in 2026 on whether to repeal that measure.
However, past ballot measure victories haven’t always translated into immediate access. Legal challenges have repeatedly delayed the implementation of the Missouri constitutional amendment. Alisha Dingus, executive director of the DC Abortion Fund, expressed concern that a lack of clear messaging about ongoing access restrictions is hindering the movement. She also noted a significant drop in donations to the DC Abortion Fund in 2025, as initial post-Roe outrage subsided and economic pressures increased.
While access to abortion pills online has led to an increase in US abortions in recent years, Dingus fears that funding for travel and clinical care will diminish. The DC Abortion Fund currently provides approximately $3,800 per week to support dozens of individuals, but its long-term sustainability is uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Democrats considered abortion an important voting issue in 2024 compared to October of this year?
In 2024, 55% of Democrats said abortion was important to their vote, according to PRRI. That number decreased to 36% in October of this year.
Which states have already confirmed abortion-related measures will be on the ballot?
Nevada and Missouri have already confirmed that they will have abortion-related measures on the ballot.
What is happening with the abortion rights measure passed in Missouri in 2024?
Although Missouri voters amended their state constitution to protect abortion rights in 2024, a protracted legal battle over the measure’s implications has repeatedly blocked abortion clinics from offering the procedure. Voters will now be asked in 2026 whether they want to repeal the measure.
Given these trends, what role will abortion rights play in future elections, and how will advocacy groups adapt to a changing political landscape?
