Republican State Representative Matt Gress faced backlash after supporting the repeal of an 1864 abortion ban in Arizona. Despite criticism from anti-abortion activists and some Democrats, Gress emphasized the need for a middle ground in the abortion debate. The repeal bill managed to pass the Arizona House, with support from Democrats and a few Republicans, signaling a shift in the political landscape. The State Senate is expected to vote on the repeal, and Governor Katie Hobbs has expressed her intention to sign it. The repeal effort has sparked intense debate and activism, with potential implications for upcoming elections and the state's abortion laws.