_{Note: This is the first of a two-part series exploring abortion’s role in the 2024 election and the road ahead for pro-life Christians. While much has been said about the election results, this post lays the groundwork for understanding how strategic action and messaging can shape the future, which we’ll explore in Part Two.}

The 2024 presidential election presented a fascinating paradox. Abortion, long considered a divisive national issue, seemed poised to galvanize the Democratic base. Yet the results tell a story that surprised many pundits. While Democrats banked heavily on the abortion debate to energize voters, Donald Trump, who largely sidestepped the issue, secured a decisive victory. How did this happen, and what does it reveal about America’s shifting priorities?

The Strategy That Fell Flat

Kamala Harris’s campaign heavily emphasized abortion, with their final wave of ads focusing on the issue more than any other topic. This strategy aligned with polls showing a strong gender gap, giving the impression that abortion would drive voters to the Democrats in droves. On the surface, this seemed to work: ten state-wide ballot measures regarding abortion were decided, with seven expanding or protecting abortion rights.

Yet, nationally, the Democrats’ strategy did not translate to success. Donald Trump won decisively, demonstrating that voters weighed abortion against broader concerns like the economy, immigration, and governance. Many voters embraced a pragmatic approach, supporting state-level abortion rights measures while voting Republican for president. The era following the Dobbs decision, which returned abortion policy to the states, enabled voters to separate state and national priorities—a development Democrats underestimated.

Voter Behavior: Pragmatism Over Passion

For many Americans, abortion remains important, but not at the top of their priorities. Exit polls and state results reflect this sentiment. For instance, several pro-abortion initiatives passed in traditionally conservative states, yet these same states voted overwhelmingly for Trump. This duality reveals a nuanced perspective: voters care about abortion but also prioritize broader national concerns.

This decoupling of abortion as a federal litmus test illustrates a critical shift. The post-Roe landscape has empowered states to reflect the will of their residents on abortion, allowing voters to “bake their cake and eat it too.” They can support what they see as reasonable abortion rights locally while electing leaders who address other pressing issues nationally.

The Lesson for Pro-Life Advocates

The 2024 election underscores a vital truth: the abortion debate is no longer one-size-fits-all. Pro-life Christians must navigate this new landscape with wisdom. State-level efforts remain pivotal as battles over expanding or restricting abortion intensify. Yet, national strategies also require refinement. Yet, national strategies also require refinement. Pro-life advocates must craft messages that emphasize life-affirming policies without alienating moderates. Words matter: National efforts should focus on compassionate, persuasive messaging that resonates across a broad spectrum of voters.

The takeaway is clear: the war for life isn’t over—it’s evolving. Pro-life advocates must adapt to this dual-front battle, working to uphold life at the state level while building a compelling vision of a nation that values and protects all life. Stay tuned.