On Tuesday, the Trump administration launched a series of aggressive actions against abortion rights, signaling its intent to withdraw from a case defending emergency abortion access and requesting permission to join a case against Planned Parenthood. The justice department announced it would seek dismissal of the case over emergency abortions, which was initially filed by the Biden administration, arguing against Idaho’s nearly complete abortion ban that contradicts federal laws ensuring patients’ rights to emergency healthcare.

In a related development, the Trump administration has asked the US Supreme Court for a chance to participate in oral arguments regarding South Carolina’s attempt to stop Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood. South Carolina’s Republican Governor, Henry McMaster, has directed the state health department to block Planned Parenthood from Medicaid, claiming it indirectly supports abortion and denies the “right to life.” Despite federal prohibitions on using federal funds for abortions, this move targets Planned Parenthood’s broader healthcare services.

The shift to dismiss the emergency abortion case could be finalized as early as Wednesday, as indicated by St Luke’s Health System in a court filing. This hospital network has previously stated that Idaho’s abortion ban forces its providers to transport women out of state for necessary emergency healthcare.

These actions mark significant steps by the Trump administration in its approach to abortion rights. The Trump administration’s stance is in stark contrast to its prior assertions of non-interference with women’s access to abortion and healthcare, raising concerns about the implications for patients’ rights and medical providers’ ability to offer care, especially in emergency situations.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/04/trump-attacks-abortion-rights-idaho-south-carolina