Aside from Republican control of Congress, Mr. Bush also could appoint one or more Supreme Court justices. Just one appointment could tip the balance with many decisions now being made on 5-4 votes. Any nominee, however, would have to be approved by a Senate divided 50-50. First lady Laura Bush broke from her husband last week, saying she did not think the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision should be overturned. But that gives little comfort to abortion rights supporters.
Abortion opponents say they are more upbeat than they have been in years.
Neither side is taking anything for granted in this fight. Monday's marches and other anti-abortion events were met with efforts by abortion rights groups to mobilize their forces against Ashcroft with radio ads and Internet campaigns. Americans are split on abortion. But only 20 percent thought it should be legal in all cases and 35 percent said it should be legal in most cases. MMI Viacom Internet Services Inc. All Rights Reserved.