The Republican Party faces a challenge in navigating the politics of abortion as a new election season begins. Although hardline anti-abortion policies may be popular with conservative primary voters, allies of leading presidential candidates are concerned that such policies could ultimately alienate a broader set of voters needed to win the presidency. This conflict is most evident in Florida, where Republican Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed one of the nation's toughest abortion bans into law.

If allowed to take effect, the law would make it illegal for women in Florida to obtain an abortion after six weeks of pregnancy, before most realize they're pregnant. DeSantis' team has emphasized his willingness to fight for and enact aggressive abortion restrictions. However, some Republican White House hopefuls, such as former President Donald Trump, are downplaying their support for anti-abortion policies out of concern that they may alienate women or other swing voters in the 2024 general election.