The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that the state’s 1849 abortion ban is unenforceable, determining it does not apply to medical abortions. This decision effectively upholds access to abortion in Wisconsin under current laws that regulate abortion up to about 20 weeks of pregnancy. The case was closely watched, as it came after a shift to a liberal majority in the court.
How the media covered it:
TFPP Wire (Right-wing): The article portrays the historic law as a vital pro-life protection overturned by judges imposing their political views, citing that “this is a devastating loss for pro-life advocates in Wisconsin”. The language used suggests the ruling undermines the will of the people and threatens unborn lives. Overall, the article presents a strongly conservative perspective, criticizing the decision as politically motivated and harmful.
Story: Wisconsin Court Overrules Historic Pro-Life Law After Left-Wing Takeover
Owner of the media outlet: Steve Straub through Integrated Marketing Group Inc
Common Dreams (Left-wing): The article frames the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s decision to block the 1849 abortion ban as a positive and overdue move toward protecting reproductive rights. It describes the law as “archaic”. The article highlights reactions praising the decision as a historic victory for reproductive freedom and criticizes the outdated law’s harmful impact. Overall, the tone is supportive of the court’s ruling.
Story: Wisconsin Supreme Court Strikes Down 'Archaic' 1849 Abortion Ban
Owner of the media outlet: Common Dreams NewsCenter (Non-profit, Founder and Director Craig Brown)
NBC Chicago - Illinois (Neutral): The NBC Chicago article uses a neutral, factual tone, focusing on the legal details of the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the old abortion ban. It frames the ruling within the context of the court’s liberal majority and recent elections, presenting both majority and dissenting views. The article aims to inform without showing bias, emphasizing the legal impact on abortion access in Wisconsin.
Story: Wisconsin Supreme Court’s Liberal Justices Strike Down 176-Year-Old Abortion Ban
Owner of the media outlet: Comcast Corporation (The Vanguard Group & BlackRock, Largest Shareholders) through NBC Universal LLC
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