West Virginia Governor Candidate Steve Williams Calls for Abortion Legalization Vote

In a bold move, Steve Williams, the mayor of Huntington and a candidate for the Democratic nomination for governor of West Virginia, is pushing for the people of the state to have a say in whether or not abortion should be legal. Williams is calling for a bill to be added to the upcoming special session of the legislature that would legalize abortion and allow voters to decide on the issue through a ballot initiative in November.

While some legislators argue that they have already spoken for the people by making the majority of abortions illegal, Williams and other Democrats believe that it is more equitable to let the voters make the decision. Williams stated, “It’s not anybody’s business for the legislature to step into a doctor’s office with a woman and her physician. And frankly, this is freedom, that’s being placed on the ballot.”

On the other side, Del. Kathie Hess Crouse, a Republican from Putnam, emphasized the value of every life and the importance of upholding the voters’ trust in their elected officials. Governor Jim Justice has not yet provided a response to the potential ballot item regarding abortion, as he is focusing on other legislative priorities for the special session.

The debate over abortion rights is not unique to West Virginia, as several states have already enacted ballot initiatives to protect reproductive rights, and more are considering similar measures. The outcome of this proposed bill in West Virginia could have far-reaching implications for the state and set a precedent for other states grappling with the issue of abortion rights.