A group of anti-abortion activists, recently pardoned by Donald Trump, is gearing up for a new wave of protests aimed at shutting down abortion clinics across the country.
Some of these activists, who had been convicted for trespassing and blocking clinic entrances, are now rallying others to join their cause.
During an online event organized by the anti-abortion group LiveAction, several activists spoke about their renewed commitment to preventing abortions, even if it means breaking the law again. Among them is Herb Geraghty, who served 17 months in prison for entering a Washington clinic in 2020. Though he initially rejected his pardon, he now encourages others to take direct action.
“Go outside the clinics or even inside—whatever it takes to stop abortions from happening,” he urged attendees.
Following Trump’s pardons, federal authorities have scaled back investigations into threats against clinics. A new Department of Justice memo suggests enforcement of related laws will be limited, except in cases involving severe harm or property damage. Meanwhile, Congress is considering repealing the law that led to these activists’ convictions.
Other activists, such as Jonathan Darnel, who served nearly three years for blocking a clinic, are calling on law enforcement to stand down. He urged anti-abortion police officers to refuse to arrest protesters, even if it means losing their jobs.
With federal prosecutions easing, activists are now pushing for state-level protections that would allow them to continue their actions without facing legal consequences.