Sen. Boxer Focuses On Abortion Rights In Calif. Race

Main Category: Abortion
Article Date: 03 Aug 2010 - 5:00 PDT

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Although the economy and jobs have been the "foremost" issues in California's Senate race, Sen. Barbara Boxer (D) is "intent on highlighting the distinction" between her views on abortion rights and those of her Republican opponent, Carly Fiorina, the AP/San Jose Mercury News reports.

According to a Public Policy Institute of California poll released Wednesday, 39% of likely voters support Boxer -- who supports abortion rights in early stages of pregnancy -- while 34% favor Fiorina, who opposes abortion except in cases or rape, incest or to save a woman's life. Boxer has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, EMILY's List and the National Organization for Women. Fiorina has received endorsements from the antiabortion-rights groups California Pro-Life Council, the Susan B. Anthony List and National Right to Life.

The AP/Mercury News reports that Boxer "knows" abortion is an issue that "can help drive voters her way." Field Poll Director Mark DiCamillo said the issue could work in Boxer's favor if she can portray Fiorina's views as a threat to the status quo. A recent Field Poll showed that 53% of Fiorina's supporters consider themselves "pro-choice." Thad Kousser, an associate professor of political science at the University of California-San Diego, said that abortion rights is "a winning issue for Boxer, and a losing issue for Fiorina" (Lin, AP/San Jose Mercury News, 7/29).

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