“Sometimes banning abortion doesn’t mean fewer abortions or fewer babies die—it just means more women die”: a thematic analysis of Roe v. Wade partisan cable news coverage

This study explores how partisan cable news outlets—CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News—constructed narratives in response to the repeal of Roe v. Wade, with a specific focus on the rhetorical strategies used to engage audiences. Using a thematic analysis of news transcripts from May 1 to July 15, 2022, this study examines (1) how different partisan outlets framed the legal, political, and social dimensions of the Supreme Court’s decision, (2) the dominant rhetorical strategies employed to appeal to audiences, and (3) the moral and emotional arguments embedded within coverage. Findings reveal stark partisan differences in storytelling approaches. CNN and MSNBC emphasized themes of bodily autonomy, government overreach, and threats to women’s rights, often incorporating emotional appeals to highlight the consequences of abortion restrictions. In contrast, Fox News framed the decision as a moral and constitutional victory, frequently using narratives that centered on the protection of unborn children and states’ rights. Across all networks, the use of political blame and finger-pointing was prevalent, reinforcing partisan divides and shaping audience perceptions of key political actors. This study contributes to research on media narratives and political communication by demonstrating how cable news outlets deploy rhetorical framing to construct competing realities around contentious issues. The findings highlight the role of partisan media in shaping public discourse, reinforcing ideological divisions, and influencing audience engagement with social and political debates.