Idaho abortion ballot initiative opposition

Religious leaders in Idaho have mobilized to oppose the Idaho Reproductive Freedom and Privacy Act, a ballot initiative scheduled for a November 3 vote. The measure seeks to establish a right to abortion in the state, including provisions for medical emergencies and abortions up to fetal viability.

Initially, leadership from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a letter to approximately 1,300 congregations urging members to “voice their opposition” to the act in a “respectful manner.” This effort aligns with other religious organizations, such as the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise, which has characterized the initiative as “radically pro-abortion.”

Following these calls for opposition, the LDS Church donated $1 million to the Too Extreme for Idaho PAC to combat Proposition 1. This contribution increased the PAC’s funds by nearly 40% and bolstered an interfaith opposition coalition. While the church maintains political neutrality regarding candidates, it stated that it actively addresses ballot initiatives involving “significant moral consequences.” The pro-initiative campaign, Idahoans United for Women and Families, has raised approximately $4.5 million to support the measure.