Des Moines - At a Christian conservative gathering in Iowa, GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley reiterated her stance on abortion by expressing her willingness to sign a six-week abortion ban if she were still the governor of South Carolina. While Haley has aimed to strike a more nuanced tone on the issue, her latest comments put her in alignment with social conservatives and in some respects to the right of former President Donald Trump.

Haley has previously called for legislators to seek "consensus" on abortion at the federal level, emphasizing her opposition to abortion while also stating that she does not judge those who hold pro-choice views. However, when pressed for more specific information on her support for restrictive laws at the Family Leader-hosted forum for 2024 candidates, Haley confirmed that she would sign the controversial "heartbeat bill", referring to the point in pregnancy when embryonic heart activity may be detected.

While Haley's approach has garnered support from some Republicans and independents looking for a middle ground on abortion, it has also drawn criticism from both ends of the political spectrum. Democrats have attacked Haley as extreme despite her talk of compromise, while some anti-abortion activists remain skeptical of her answers.

Haley's comments further blur the differences among GOP candidates on the issue of abortion. Former President Donald Trump has been openly critical of six-week bans, despite his efforts to reshape the Supreme Court and overturn Roe v. Wade. Haley's alignment with the six-week ban places her in line with fellow Republican contender Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, who faced backlash for signing similar legislation.

Haley's growing momentum in the 2024 race, particularly in New Hampshire where pro-choice Republicans hold influence, contrasts with the pressure she faces from social conservatives in Iowa. As the first state in the GOP nominating process, Iowa's Republican voters have historically prioritized strict abortion restrictions.

During the forum, Family Leader president Bob Vander Plaats highlighted the divided opinions on six-week bans, alluding to Trump's criticism of such legislation. Vander Plaats questioned Haley on why her previous statements on abortion were perceived by some as pro-choice, to which Haley cited her support for anti-abortion measures during her tenure as South Carolina governor.

In addition to a 20-week abortion ban, Haley backed mandatory waiting periods and ultrasound tests before the procedure. Haley reiterated her message of seeking consensus and saving as many babies as possible, while also supporting mothers, during the Family Leader's forum.

Earlier on Friday, Haley gained an endorsement from Iowa anti-abortion leader Marlys Popma, further solidifying her position among conservative voters. DeSantis, on the other hand, centers his campaign in Iowa and also appeals to evangelical voters but often defers to state-level decisions regarding abortion restrictions.

While the Thanksgiving forum fostered open conversations between the candidates, allowing them to share personal stories related to pregnancy and abortion, their policy differences remained apparent. As the Republican candidates continue to navigate the complex issue of abortion, it remains to be seen which strategy will resonate with voters and shape the party's stance in the 2024 election.