November 2008 was poised to be a historic election for America, and nothing less than vital for a Culture of Life.
The candidates were far from perfect—aren’t we all? But when it came to life issues, the contrast was grim. Barack Obama rated a perfect 0 percent from National Right to Life and a flawless 100% from NARAL, the National Abortion Rights Action League. As a U.S. senator, he cosponsored the Freedom of Choice Act. As a state senator, he repeatedly rejected legislation to provide healthcare to babies that survived abortion procedures. He told an audience he’d hate to see his daughters get pregnant out of wedlock and be punished with a baby.
John McCain, by contrast, was pro-life, and his running mate, Sarah Palin, couldn’t have been stronger, choosing late in her career to do what some 90 percent of women don’t when told they’re carrying a Down syndrome child: she had the baby.
More than that, the 2008 election was vital because it would decide the long-term make-up of the Supreme Court. The next president would get at least two or three court picks, either causing Roe v. Wade’s reversal or ensuring another 35 years. Roe’s survival could mean death another 50 million aborted babies. The election was a matter of life and death.
America’s Catholics, providing one in four ballots, were set to make the difference. According to CNN exit polling, 53% of them voted for Obama.
We have been bearing the consequences ever since, from President Obama’s reversal of the Mexico City policy his first week in office to, yes, one, and now a second, Supreme Court pick—both abortion advocates. Soon, Obama should get a third.
What does this mean for the pro-life movement? It’s not good, but there’s hope. Join me next time, as I consider that question.
