They have differing stances on abortion.
President Joe Biden is heading to Florida on Tuesday to address the importance of protecting abortion rights, positioning former President Donald Trump as a threat to reproductive freedom.
Biden’s visit to Tampa aims to strongly advocate for reproductive rights and denounce Trump’s policies restricting access to abortion, echoing his ongoing commitment since the Roe v. Wade decision was overturned, according to Biden campaign spokesperson Michael Tyler.
Despite Trump’s victories in Florida in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, the Biden campaign sees the state as “winnable” and is prioritizing efforts to mobilize support.
Tyler emphasized that Florida is not guaranteed to Trump, highlighting the importance of addressing abortion rights, particularly in the context of recent state legislation and court rulings.
Biden’s remarks in Florida are expected to reference the recent Arizona Supreme Court decision upholding a near-total ban on abortion dating back to 1864.
The timing of Biden’s visit coincides with the impending enforcement of a six-week abortion ban signed into law by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis last year, following a state Supreme Court ruling. The Biden campaign sees the proposed amendment on the November ballot, aimed at protecting abortion rights in the state constitution, as a potential factor in flipping the state.
A significant portion of Florida voters support legal abortion, as indicated by a 2022 midterm exit poll, with abortion being a key factor for many in deciding their vote.
Although Trump has expressed varying positions on abortion over the years, including support for conservative justices who oppose Roe v. Wade, his absence from Florida on Tuesday due to his trial in New York underscores the contrasting priorities between the two leaders.
With abortion rights being a recurring issue on state ballots and a focal point in elections, its impact on voter mobilization remains to be seen, particularly in the upcoming November elections.
