Planned Parenthood Votes South Atlantic, a political arm of Planned Parenthood, is investing $10 million in organizing efforts in North Carolina this year. This is the largest investment the organization has made in a single state. The money will be used for digital advertisements, new field offices, and a canvassing operation in key swing counties. The goal is to knock on over one million doors by the end of 2024 to engage voters in conversations about protecting abortion access.
While abortion is not directly on the ballot in North Carolina, Democrats are hoping to use the issue to energize voters in the state’s competitive race for governor. Planned Parenthood’s efforts aim to support President Biden and highlight the importance of abortion rights in North Carolina, the last state in the Deep South where abortion is legal after six weeks of pregnancy.
Emily Thompson, the deputy director of Planned Parenthood Votes South Atlantic, emphasized the critical nature of this year’s election in protecting abortion access. The organization’s focus will also extend to state House and Senate races, where Democrats aim to break the Republican supermajority.
Democrats are leveraging Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s controversial comments on abortion to rally support for President Biden and Josh Stein, the Democratic nominee for governor. Robinson’s stance on abortion, combined with grassroots momentum, is expected to influence the election outcomes. Planned Parenthood’s efforts will target key races to advance their mission of protecting reproductive rights.
Robinson’s views on abortion, including his past comments and proposed legislation, have sparked debate in the state. Planned Parenthood’s investment in organizing efforts has been met with criticism from Robinson’s camp, citing differences in values and extremism in campaigning strategies.
Planned Parenthood’s community organizers will target specific voter demographics, focusing on suburban white women and marginalized communities. Their goal is to educate voters on the importance of reproductive rights and the impact of political decisions on abortion access. Other advocacy groups, like Red, Wine and Blue, are also prioritizing abortion access in their messaging to recruit new members and mobilize support for the cause.
The fight for abortion rights in North Carolina is intensifying, with various organizations and political groups gearing up for a pivotal election. The state’s role in shaping reproductive policies is significant, and activists are committed to defending abortion access and advocating for women’s rights.
