A Majority of Americans Say Abortion Should Be Legal in All or Most Cases

Washington, DC, June 3, 2019 – With the recent passage of state laws restricting abortion in nine states*, Ipsos along with USA Today conducted a public opinion survey to gather how the American public currently views this divisive issue. Our May 31-June 1, 2019 study finds that a clear majority of Americans (55%) say that abortion should be legal in most or all cases, that facilities that provide abortion services should be allowed to remain in operation (73%), and that the Supreme Court should maintain the legal right to abortion (80%). However, we also find that Americans see nuance on the issue with most Americans avoiding an absolutist position on abortion.

Politically, this survey underlines that opposition to abortion is most concentrated in the Republican party, where a clear majority (59%) believe it should be illegal. Republicans also are likely to believe the new focus on abortion is good for the country. However, when asked if the abortion debate will impact their likelihood to vote in 2020, more Democrats than Republicans say it is increasing their likelihood, indicating the current fight may be energizing the Democratic base.

For more information on this news release please contact:

Chris Jackson
Vice President, U.S.
Ipsos Public Affairs
202.420.2011
[email protected]

Mallory Newall
Director, U.S.
Ipsos Public Affairs
+1 202 420-2014
[email protected]

About Ipsos Public Affairs

Ipsos Public Affairs is a non-partisan, objective, survey-based research practice made up of seasoned professionals. We conduct strategic research initiatives for a diverse number of American and international organizations, based not only on public opinion research, but elite stakeholder, corporate, and media opinion research.

Ipsos has media partnerships with the most prestigious news organizations around the world. Through our media partnerships, Ipsos Public Affairs is a leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and internationally. Ipsos Public Affairs is a member of the Ipsos Group, a leading global survey-based market research company. We provide boutique-style customer service and work closely with our clients, while also undertaking global research.

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks fourth in the global research industry.

With offices in 89 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across five research specializations: brand, advertising and media; customer loyalty; marketing; public affairs research; and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,749.5 million in 2018.