The US Supreme Court on Thursday overturned Roe v. Wade — a historic precedent that protected abortion rights in the country. The move has received mixed reactions from lawmakers — Democrats and Republicans. 

Mitch McConnell, the Senate minority leader and a GOP legislator, tagged Roe v. Wade as a “terrible legal and moral error” and hailed the new decision.

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“Millions of Americans have spent half a century praying, marching, and working toward today’s historic victories for the rule of law and for innocent life. I have been proud to stand with them throughout our long journey and I share their joy today”, McConnell said shortly after the verdict was delivered on Thursday.

Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas and a pro-life advocate, welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision. “Texas will always fight for the innocent unborn, and I will continue working to save every child from the ravages of abortion and help our expectant mothers in need.”

Democrats had contrasting views. Former US President Barack Obama, who released a statement with wife and former FLOTUS Michelle, said that Roe v. Wade’s reversal will “relegate the most intensely personal decision someone can make to the whims of politicians and ideologues.”

Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California and Speaker of the House, vowed to “keep fighting ferociously to enshrine Roe v. Wade into law.” 

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“This cruel ruling is outrageous and heart-wrenching. But make no mistake: the rights of women and all Americans are on the ballot this November“, Pelosi said while referring to the upcoming midterm elections in the United States.

The decision, unthinkable just a few years ago, was the culmination of decades of efforts by abortion opponents, made possible by an emboldened right side of the court that has been fortified by three appointees of former President Donald Trump.