Harris Backs Filibuster Elimination to Reclaim Abortion Rights

WASHINGTON — In a recent radio interview, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris expressed strong support for altering Senate procedures to codify abortion rights. She advocated for ending the 60-vote threshold required to advance abortion rights legislation, a move contingent upon securing Democratic agreement and retaining a majority in the Senate. This presents a significant challenge as Republicans are poised to potentially reclaim control in the upcoming November elections.

“I think we should eliminate the filibuster for Roe,” Harris stated during her conversation with Wisconsin Public Radio. “That would allow us to restore protections for reproductive freedom, enabling every individual, especially women, to make autonomous decisions about their bodies without government interference.” Harris has consistently emphasized her commitment to restoring the constitutional right to abortion, particularly following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer mentioned in August that Democrats would explore potential rule changes to advance abortion rights legislation. The political landscape remains uncertain as Republicans may secure pivotal Senate seats, with projections indicating a likely gain in West Virginia.

Meanwhile, at a rally in Pennsylvania, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump branded himself as a “protector” of women. He asserted that abortion discussions are now irrelevant, claiming the issue resides with individual states. Trump, who has called for dismantling the filibuster, faced opposition from GOP leaders like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who have vowed to maintain its current form.

Democrats face pressure to retain key Senate seats in battleground states such as Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. If they manage to keep the Senate at 50 seats under a Democratic presidency, a potential tie-breaking vote from the vice president would allow for significant legislative maneuvering.

During a Tuesday press conference on abortion, Democratic Senator Patty Murray supported Harris’ position. She clarified that the proposal would not eliminate the filibuster entirely but would create a pathway to restore rights when they are under threat.

In economic discussions, Harris’ campaign featured a press call with investor Mark Cuban, who advocated for her economic policies amid polling that favors Trump’s perception as the more economically savvy candidate, with 55% of voters viewing him favorably in this area.

The campaign trail remains active this week. Trump is set to speak in Savannah, Georgia, focusing on tax reductions for business owners. In contrast, Harris will head to Pennsylvania and then travel to Arizona and Nevada later in the week. The dynamic in battleground states continues to intensify as candidates push their agendas to an engaged electorate.