The shift highlights deep division surrounding the abortion issue, though a recent January 2026 poll suggests underlying public consensus on regulation. The survey found that 67% of U.S. adults favor placing legal limits on abortion, and 57% supported limiting elective procedures to the first trimester. Intriguingly, while 62% of respondents identified as “pro-choice,” Dr. Barbara L. Carvalho of the Marist Poll noted that consensus exists for limited access, typically allowing exceptions for rape, incest, or saving the life of the mother, despite the polarized public debate.