In this May 28, 2013 file photo, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst , right, stands with Gov. Rick Perry during the signing of a water fund bill, in Austin, Texas. Now that the governor has called a special session, Dewhurst will get a chance to resurrect the anti-abortion legislation bill that failed earlier this week, but maybe not his political career. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
AUSTIN, Texas — More than 5,000 demonstrators were rallying Monday in Austin, Texas, against new abortion restrictions.
Television stars and a country singer appeared at the Texas Capitol’s largest political rally in years, just hours before the Legislature was scheduled to begin a new special session.
Gov. Rick Perry called on lawmakers to restrict when, where and how women obtain abortions. Supporters say they will improve women’s health care, while opponents say they will shut down clinics through over-regulation.
Women addressing the crowd called on lawmakers to reject the law because it took away a woman’s right to choose. But Republican majorities who oppose all abortions are expected to pass the bill over the next 30 days.
Anti-abortion demonstrators were expected to rally later Monday.