South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, a Republican, supported former President Trump's view on abortion laws, saying that the states should decide.
During an interview on “State of the Union” with CNN's Dana Bash, Noem expressed her agreement with Trump's position on state abortion laws, explaining that her stance changed after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.
Noem stated, “The environment changed when Roe v. Wade was overturned. That returned the power back to the States, which is appropriate, and Donald Trump is exactly right. Every state’s laws will look different based on what the people in those states want to be their law when it comes to abortion.”
She emphasized the need to focus on supporting women in crisis and providing them with necessary information, acknowledging that each state may have differing laws based on their residents' preferences.
Trump also voiced his belief that states should have authority over abortion laws. …their own laws …on abortion, breaking from several members …of his party who believe abortion should be banned at the federal level. Trump has also said he would not sign a federal abortion ban.
Following the overturn of Roe v. Wade, Noem mentioned that doctors performing abortions will face prosecution in her state due to a new trigger law. South Dakota’s ban prohibits all abortions except in cases to preserve the pregnant person's life. …will be targeted …in her state. South Dakota’s ban prohibits all abortions except to preserve the life of a pregnant person.
Noem clarified that being pro-life doesn't mean she gets to dictate laws and praised Trump for acknowledging the states' constitutional authority. She also supported the idea of having the decision made at the state level.
When asked if she thought the South Dakota abortion law was too strict, Noem defended it by stating that it reflects the will of the people in her state.
She emphasized that the current law aligns with South Dakota's desires and indicated her commitment to upholding the will of the people.
