The Elliot Institute, one of the nation’s leading centers for research on the impact of “easy abortion”, just released a fascinating article on the politics of abortion rights.

They raise serious questions about the assumptions many in politics and the media make about abortion, especially the idea that “abortion rights” is a major concern of American women. Indeed, the source of their analysis is a public opinion study conducted by the pro-abortion “Center for the Advancement of Women”.

When asked by pollsters paid by the group, women ranked “preserving abortion rights” as a low political priority. 92% of women interviewed were very concerned about domestic violence; 74% named getting more time off work to care for family as a big priority. And 72% listed the plague of drug and alcohol addiction as a big priority for state and federal governments.

By contrast, only 41% mentioned “preserving abortion rights” anywhere on their multi-issue list.
Part of the surprising analysis is related to the fact that most women – particularly those who endured abortions – recognize abortion as a terrible choice. The Elliot Institute itself conducted a national survey in 2002. One of its more important findings came in response to the following question:

“When a woman has an abortion, do you generally think it makes her life better, worse, or has little impact?”

Only 16% of those interviewed believed that a woman’s life was improved by undergoing an abortion. 52% said they thought abortion made women’s lives worse. Even “pro-choice” women admitted that an abortion likely damages a woman’s life.

It has been said that abortion is no favor to women. This research strongly suggests that the American public recognizes this fact.