Manchin Backs Hyde as Democrats Seek End to Abortion Funds Ban

Moderate Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin effectively closed the door Thursday to ending the long-time ban on federal funds for abortion services, announcing he’ll support the existing policy “in every way possible.”

Manchin (W.Va.), a member of the Senate appropriations subcommittee responsible for most federal health spending, said he opposes ending the Hyde amendment, which bars federal funds for abortions except in the case of rape or incest or to save the life of the woman.

Manchin’s decision to side with Republicans could block Democrats from advancing a spending bill through the Senate Appropriations Committee unless it includes the longstanding ban, ...