Winning the Pro-Life Battles, Losing the Persuasion War

Americans support right to abortion more than any time in recent history.

Illustration by Christianity Today / Source Images: Getty

The pro-life movement won a historic victory at the US Supreme Court with Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. It has not, however, won over many hearts and minds. In fact, polls show a substantial shift in opinions on abortion for the first time in decades—more people now believe abortion is a right that should not be restricted.

When George W. Bush was running for president, he said the only way to build a lasting culture of life in a democracy is to persuade people, winning voters over to the pro-life position. If that’s true, then the recent success of the defenders of the unborn may turn out to be hollow.

This article appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Christianity Today as "Pro-Life Victories May Not Be Viable".

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Also in this issue

As this issue hits your mailboxes after the US election and as you prepare for the holidays, it can be easy to feel lost in darkness. In this issue, you’ll read of the piercing light of Christ that illuminates the darkness of drug addiction at home and abroad, as Angela Fulton in Vietnam and Maria Baer in Portland report about Christian rehab centers. Also, Carrie McKean explores the complicated path of estrangement and Brad East explains the doctrine of providence. Elissa Yukiko Weichbrodt shows us how art surprises, delights, and retools our imagination for the Incarnation, while Jeremy Treat reminds us of an ancient African bishop's teachings about Immanuel. Finally, may you be surprised by the nearness of the “Winter Child,” whom poet Malcolm Guite guides us enticingly toward. Happy Advent and Merry Christmas.