Trump advocates for states' autonomy in handling abortion legislation, opposes national ban

In a series of statements, former President Donald Trump has expressed his views on abortion and abortion rights. He has declined to endorse a national ban on abortion but acknowledged that his stance leaves him open to being associated with strict state legislation. The US Supreme Court ruling in 2022 allowed states to establish their own abortion laws. Trump has previously expressed support for a 16-week national abortion ban but now believes that the issue should be decided by individual states through voter or legislative action. Trump supports exceptions for rape, incest, and cases where the mother's life is at risk. He also claimed responsibility for the Supreme Court decision ending the federal right to abortion. However, he did not indicate whether he would seek a national ban on abortion if he returns to the White House. It is important to note that Trump's statements may differ from some Republican-led states that have enacted tight abortion restrictions or banned abortions outright and made it a criminal offense.