Miami Mayor Francis Suarez Supports 15-Week Abortion Ban: Insights on 2024 Presidential Race

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, the newest Republican candidate in the 2024 presidential race, has expressed his support for a federal abortion ban of 15 weeks while declining to endorse a ban at six weeks. In an interview with The Associated Press, Suarez acknowledged that he believes the country is not yet ready for a six-week abortion ban.

In his home state of Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis, who is also a GOP presidential candidate, recently signed a six-week abortion ban into law, albeit with limited exceptions.

However, Suarez’s stance differs, emphasizing that a 15-week ban with exceptions for the life of the mother, as well as cases of rape and incest, would align with the views of approximately 70% of the country. He believes that such legislation could significantly reduce the number of abortions performed.

The issue of abortion has become a significant topic among the primary candidates. While DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence have expressed support for a six-week ban, Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has endorsed a 15-week federal abortion ban. Former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley has also advocated for a federal ban without specifying the number of weeks.

Former President Trump, however, has criticized Florida’s six-week ban, suggesting that some individuals within the pro-life movement consider it too severe. However, Trump has not explicitly clarified his own stance on the matter.

DeSantis, in response to Trump’s comments, expressed surprise and had expected the former president to praise the passing of the heartbeat bill, which had long been desired by pro-life advocates.

DeSantis’s interview, in which he discusses Trump’s response, is scheduled to air on the 700 Club on Friday. He expressed disappointment that Trump did not acknowledge the achievement of enacting the heartbeat bill, stating that Trump simply referred to it as “harsh.”