Poll finds record support for abortion rights as Roe turns 40

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broadly, the poll adds to recent surveys that suggest that while a
majority of people disagree with overturning the landmark decision, many
people are willing to accept limits on abortion rights.

According to the new survey, almost seven in 10 adults say they do not support abortion under every circumstance.

Twenty-three
percent said the practice should be legal with some exceptions, while
35 percent said it should be illegal except in cases of rape, incest or
to save a woman’s life.

About 40 percent of respondents said abortion should be wholly legal (31 percent) or illegal (9 percent).

Groups on both sides of the debate urged commitment to their causes on Tuesday, the Roe anniversary.

“With
so many women and their unborn children injured and lost to abortion,
we reflect on the importance of pressing on,” said Americans United for
Life President Charmaine Yoest in a statement.

“We remain
determined to advance a sound legal strategy and are committed to
working toward a day when every person is welcomed in life and protected
in law.”

The National Organization for Women (NOW) praised Roe in announcing a candlelight vigil would take place Tuesday night at the Supreme Court.

“NOW
affirms that women’s access to the full range of reproductive health
services — including safe, legal and affordable abortion care and birth
control — is integral to women’s ability to participate equally in our
society,” said NOW President Terry O’Neill in a statement. “Roe v. Wade has helped improve women’s status in the U.S. and saved countless women’s lives.”

The WSJ/NBC survey was conducted Jan. 12-15 and has a 3.1 percent margin of error.