Tens of thousands of individuals who strongly oppose abortion gathered in Washington, D.C. for the annual March For Life on Friday.

The event featured heartfelt speeches from women who shared their personal stories of contemplating abortion, but ultimately chose not to proceed. Notable figures like Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh also delivered speeches. Moreover, the event aimed to provide support and funding to pregnancy resource centers, as a proposed rule from the Biden administration threatens to limit funding for these centers. Attendees, including priests and college students, traveled from various parts of the United States and enthusiastically endured the falling snow and freezing temperatures.

"The purpose of this event is to demonstrate strength, perseverance, and sacrifice for the cause of human rights that the pro-life movement represents this year, with a particular emphasis on the needs of women facing unplanned pregnancies," stated Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, in an interview with CBS News.

Abortion and Presidential Candidates

Abortion remains a significant issue for many voters, shaping their views on presidential candidates. During a recent Fox News town hall, former president Donald Trump proudly discussed his role in the end of Roe v. Wade. Trump appointed three Supreme Court judges who played a crucial role in the Dobbs decision, which overturned the landmark 1973 ruling.

"Nobody has done more in that regard. (But) I happen to be for the exceptions like Ronald Reagan, with the life of the mother, rape, incest. I just have to be there, I feel," Trump stated.

However, Trump advised Republicans to find a consensus on the issue in order to "win elections," a viewpoint that was not shared by all attendees at the March for Life event. Ony Otiocha, a 20-year-old college student and president of the Students for Life group at North Carolina State University, believes life begins at conception and advocates for men to have a voice in abortion policy. Otiocha expressed some dissatisfaction with Trump's stance, stating, "I'm not like super excited about that." Instead, she prefers Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who signed a six-week abortion ban into law in Florida.

Sophia Niarchos, a 68-year-old from New Jersey, commented that the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade was just "a drop in the bucket" since "people can still have abortions" in most states.

Both former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley and DeSantis have stated their commitment to signing a national abortion ban if elected as president. Many voters who align with the anti-abortion movement are seeking stricter regulations. In a recent statement, Haley urged Republicans to refrain from demonizing abortion.

"The Democrats instill fear in women regarding abortion, while Republicans pass judgment," Haley stated last week. "This issue is too personal to evoke fear or judgment. Our objective should be 'How can we save as many babies as possible and support as many mothers as possible?'"

An official from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America acknowledged that Trump had the most notable track record in opposing abortion, but stressed the importance of addressing the topic with compassion. The organization is currently seeking to endorse Republican candidates at the federal level who advocate for restrictions on abortion after the third month of pregnancy.

Zoe Gilsenan, a 20-year-old student at the University of Florida, emphasized that abortion should not be treated as a partisan issue. She is searching for a candidate who will not compromise on exceptions.