Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) called the Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion part of the "fabric of American life" during a podcast interview Thursday.
Schumer and Senate Democrats are trying to block the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, with progressive critics charging he will endanger women's right to abortion. If confirmed, Kavanaugh would replace Anthony Kennedy, who voted with the liberal side of the court on social issues.
On Marist Poll's "Poll Hub" podcast, one of Schumer's interviewers said their polling showed a strong consensus of support for Roe vs. Wade but also support for some restrictions on abortion. However, she said the balance of the court with Kavanaugh's potential confirmation didn't "resonate as a motivating factor" for voters, even young Democrats.
"Is there a disconnect between Americans' views on abortion, the Supreme Court, and even the Democratic Party? Or do you see it as just a messaging problem for the party?" his interviewer asked.
"I think what it is is we've had Roe for so long, and it's been so much the part and fabric of American life that people think, 'Well, no matter who's on the Court, it'll pretty much stay where it is,'" Schumer said. "I don't think that's accurate."
Schumer pointed to Trump's selection of Kavanaugh from a list of recommended judges approved by the conservative groups Heritage Foundation and Federalist Society.
Schumer has vowed to fight Kavanaugh's confirmation with all his strength, but thus far he has not won any Senate Republican defections. Schumer will need at least two to vote with all 49 Democrats and left-leaning independents to be successful.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) plans to hold a vote on Kavanaugh's confirmation early this fall.