How much of an impact will overturning Roe V. Wade have on midterm election? Experts weigh in

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Fort Wayne’s NBC) - With Friday’s Supreme Court decision on abortion, activists and politicians are fired up and motivated to make themselves heard.

If you’ve driven by the Allen County courthouse since Friday, you’ve likely seen protesters holding signs and advocating for reproductive rights.

“We just need to educate the future generations that this is not okay and that they can stand up and fight,” protest organizer Zelle Haven-Meyer said.

Zelle Haven-Meyer organized this rally at the courthouse Monday afternoon. Beyond just wanting abortion rights to remain in place, her message is that change needs to happen in November’s midterm election.

“I think it’s really important to get the word out,” Haven-Meyer said. “Especially to young people, because they need to know that they have a voice and that they can stand up for themselves.”

So, how big of a role will Friday’s ruling play in voters’ decisions? PFW Political Science Professor Andy Downs says it will be one of a number of topics that voters will keep in mind when heading to the polls.

“We’ll also see turnout driven in part because of the second amendment ruling that came down and quite frankly some folks will come out because of the Jan. 6 hearings as well,” Downs said. “So, it’s possible we’re setting the stage for a very large turnout for a midterm election.”

July 6th, Indiana lawmakers will convene for a special session. It’s possible they will decide to restrict or ban abortion in Indiana.

“I think it’s safe to say that the general assembly will not be lacking in options that’s presented to them. I also think it’s safe to say that many of the members of the general assembly have already selected their favorite version of this,” Downs said.

If new abortion laws go into effect, experts say lawsuits could be filed.

“I think among the most likely for example are anything that involves interstate travel,” IU law professor Jody Madeira said. “For example, we are committed to getting Hoosier women safe and legal access to procedures no matter what the Indiana General Assembly will do and there might be lawmakers who try to stop women from getting across state lines.”

As lawmakers are set to gather for a special session ,these protesters say they will continue to try and make sure their voices are heard.

If Indiana decides to restrict or ban abortion, Downs says don’t be surprised if the new law goes into effect immediately.

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