© 2024 Allbritton Journalism Institute
Tony Perkins
Family Research Council President Tony Perkins led an effort to bring back Republican platform language supporting a federal abortion ban. Jose Luis Magana/AP

The Anti-Abortion Movement Is Already Prepping for 2028

A national abortion ban might be unlikely under Donald Trump, but activists think there’s plenty to be done in the next four years.

Family Research Council President Tony Perkins led an effort to bring back Republican platform language supporting a federal abortion ban. Jose Luis Magana/AP

MILWAUKEE — After Republicans adopted a watered-down anti-abortion platform this week, leaders in the movement are setting their sights on what’s next: Finding the politician who will lead the party back to full-throated support for a federal abortion ban.

Defeating Democrats in November remains a priority for the anti-abortion movement, but activists are already beginning to discuss future election cycles.

Several names are being discussed for 2028, including Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Sen. Tim Scott, Sen. Marco Rubio and Donald Trump’s newly selected running mate, Sen. JD Vance, all of whom have indicated support for federal restrictions, according to a source familiar with the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the movement.