Obama says he is 'proud' of abortion-rights protesters, encourages Americans to 'join a march near you'

Former U.S. President Barack Obama delivers remarks at an event to tout the Affordable Care Act, his top legislative accomplishment also known as 'Obamacare', in the East Room at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 5, 2022. — Former U.S. President Barack Obama delivers remarks at an event to tout the Affordable Care Act in the East Room at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 5, 2022.
Leah Millis/Reuters

Former President Barack Obama applauded abortion-rights protesters and called for more people to join in.
His comments come on the heels of nationwide protests following the leaked Supreme Court draft.
Obama's call for voter participation comes after the Senate failed to advance a bill that would enshrine abortion rights in federal law.

Former President Barack Obama applauded abortion rights protesters on Saturday and called for more people to engage in activism.

"Across the country, Americans are standing up for abortion rights—and I'm proud of everyone making their voices heard. Join a march near you," Obama tweeted on Saturday along with an organizing link.

The former president continued: "If you can't join a march in person today, you can still get involved. Donate to a local abortion fund. Volunteer with activists who've been organizing on this issue for years. And vote on or before November 8 and in every election."

His comments come on the heels of nationwide protests after a leaked Supreme Court draft showed the court is poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, reversing abortion rights.

—Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 14, 2022

Obama blasted the court opinion after it was leaked, warning that the consequences of such a reversal would affect every American.

"That's a result none of us should want. But it should serve as a powerful reminder of the central role the courts play in protecting our rights — and of the fact that elections have consequences," Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama said in a joint statement.

On Wednesday, the Senate failed to advance a bill that would enshrine abortion rights in federal law and protect abortion access across the country.

President Joe Biden, formerly Obama's Vice President, criticized Senate Republicans.

"Republicans in Congress – not one of whom voted for this bill – have chosen to stand in the way of Americans' rights to make the most personal decisions about their own bodies, families, and lives," Biden said in a statement on Wednesday.

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