Few figures embody the tensions within American conservatism like Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO). Hawley has cultivated a well-earned reputation as a social conservative warrior and defender of Christians both here and abroad. Yes, his embrace of unions and protectionist economics raises serious red flags for traditional conservatives. Even still, in a Congress with little courage and a Republican Party with decreasing room for the pro-life cause, Hawley deserves recognition for being an unapologetic warrior for unborn Americans.
Hawley and his wife, Erin, recently announced the launch of a group focused on highlighting anti-abortion ballot measures and policies that support families and the unborn. This initiative moves beyond rhetoric into concrete action, leveraging political resources to advance the pro-life movement. By taking this step, Hawley demonstrates a commitment to translating principles into tangible results, ensuring that pro-life advocacy is not only vocal but also winning political battles.
Unsurprisingly, this bold move has drawn the ire of the White House, which oddly views this as an attack on Vice President JD Vance. But the Hawleys remain undeterred, demonstrating that defending life is not a symbolic stance; it is a fight that demands courage and action.
In the Senate, Hawley has wielded his influence to win pro-life concessions from the administration. Earlier this year, he secured a commitment from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary to perform a safety review of mifepristone, the chemical abortion drug. Hawley has followed through on these promises by holding Makary accountable for the recent rumors that the FDA was delaying the safety review until after the midterm elections for obvious political reasons. These efforts show that Hawley’s commitment to life extends beyond simple rhetoric and legislation; he actively works to ensure that policy decisions reflect the sanctity of human life.
Being pro-life is a conviction, not a slogan, yet too many Republicans treat it as a campaign talking point rather than an issue of human rights. Hawley consistently prioritizes unborn life, even when it conflicts with the Trump administration, party leadership, or influential donors. Unlike many who offer carefully worded statements and quietly retreat, he openly criticizes compromises that weaken the pro-life cause and opposes nominees or policies that fall short, doing so publicly rather than hiding behind procedural excuses. True leadership, as Hawley demonstrates, requires action and upholding principles even at political cost.
Providing support and recognition to those who actively stand up for life strengthens the pro-life community, counters political cynicism, and reinforces the importance of courage, conviction, and consistent advocacy in protecting life. By celebrating individuals who refuse to compromise on defending the unborn, we inspire more citizens and policymakers to prioritize life over expediency, helping the movement gain momentum and achieve a lasting impact.
This action takes on added significance given the current White House’s posture, which can at best be described as apathetic to the pro-life cause. Human life is far too valuable for Republicans and conservatives to remain silent. If we believe that life is a sacred gift, our response must be unapologetically committed to defending it. Hawley has consistently exhibited courage in standing for life, even when doing so attracts criticism from both Democrats and morally ambiguous Republicans.
IS THE GOP STILL THE PARTY OF LIFE? HARDLY
Praising Hawley’s pro-life record does not require endorsing every aspect of his broader political agenda. We can reject Democrat-lite economics while still affirming that protecting unborn life is a moral imperative. In fact, keeping these issues distinct may be crucial for the long-term success of the pro-life movement. Life should be defended for its inherent dignity, not because it conveniently aligns with a particular religious or ideological framework. Hawley occasionally blurs that line with his other positions, but on the core issue, he consistently shows up — and conservatives should recognize and commend him for it.
Ultimately, standing for life is not about party loyalty or ideological purity; it is about defending the most vulnerable among us. Lasting success for the pro-life movement will require more than speeches and social media posts. It will demand the kind of courageous action that Hawley exemplifies. In acknowledging and supporting that commitment, we reaffirm a fundamental truth: Human life is sacred, deserving of protection, and worthy of unwavering defense with conviction and courage.
Madeline Alfonso is the digital assistant at Advancing American Freedom.