Nebraska to Vote on Competing Abortion Amendments

Nebraska voters will face two competing abortion-related measures on the November ballot, marking the first instance of such a scenario in the state's history. One initiative aims to enshrine the right to an abortion up to fetal viability in the state constitution, while the other seeks to maintain the current 12-week ban with exceptions for rape, incest, and medical emergencies. Both measures have surpassed the signature requirement, with over 207,000 and 205,000 signatures submitted, respectively. For either measure to pass, it must receive a majority of the votes as well as at least 35% of the total votes cast; if both receive enough votes, the one with the higher total will prevail. This development is part of a broader trend, as several states, including swing states like Arizona and Nevada, are also putting abortion issues on the ballot, which advocates believe could drive higher voter turnout in the upcoming elections. Nebraska's decision is seen as crucial in the context of a competitive presidential race, especially in its 2nd Congressional District.