In the wake of a bombshell report by The New York Times revealing that former President Donald Trump allegedly backs a 16-week federal abortion ban, President Joe Biden and Democratic allies have launched a scathing attack on Trump’s stance, igniting a fresh wave of debate over reproductive rights in the lead-up to the November election.

Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, refuted claims of a concrete commitment to supporting a national abortion ban, stating that Trump aims to negotiate a deal amenable to all parties. However, Biden swiftly capitalized on the report, accusing Trump of aiming to strip away women’s rights while positioning himself as their defender.

“Trump is running scared,” declared President Biden in response to the revelations. “He’s afraid the women of America are going to hold him responsible for taking away their rights and endangering their rights at the ballot box in November. Which is exactly what’s going to happen.”

The Biden campaign seized upon the Times report, holding a press call to lambast Trump on the issue, emphasizing that “access to abortion for all women is on the ballot this November,” as asserted by the Democratic National Committee.

While Trump has celebrated his role in the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the subsequent enactment of restrictive abortion laws, he has notably avoided detailed discussions on abortion legislation during his campaign events. Despite his pivotal influence on the issue, Trump’s reluctance to firmly articulate his stance underscores the complexity and divisiveness surrounding abortion politics.

Trump’s equivocation on abortion comes amidst acknowledgment of its electoral ramifications within the Republican Party. Criticizing the hard-line stance of some GOP members, Trump warned of the electoral consequences, pointing to candidates who suffered defeat after adopting stringent anti-abortion positions.

As the abortion debate continues to roil American politics, Trump’s nuanced approach reflects the delicate balancing act required to navigate an issue that remains deeply polarizing and politically charged. With the election looming, both sides are gearing up for a fierce battle over the future of reproductive rights in America.