California’s Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom, has strongly criticized the recent decision by the Alabama Supreme Court, which declared embryos as legally equivalent to people, labeling it as a direct assault on women’s rights.

In an interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Saturday, Newsom emphasized that this move represents more than just a restriction on abortion or travel; it signifies a broader attack on the rights and autonomy of women. He expressed his dismay over the reported contemplation by former President Donald Trump to support a federal abortion ban set at 16 weeks, with certain exceptions.

With a touch of sarcasm, Newsom remarked on Trump’s supposed generosity in including exceptions, questioning the rationale behind choosing the 16-week mark. He derided the lack of seriousness among proponents of such bans, highlighting the arbitrary nature of the timeline.

Furthermore, Newsom cautioned against viewing a 16-week ban as a compromise, suggesting that other Republicans, like Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, would push for even more stringent restrictions. He warned that the trajectory could lead to far-reaching limitations on reproductive rights.

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, numerous states have enacted prohibitive measures against abortion, resulting in a landscape where access to abortion is severely curtailed in over a dozen states, according to NBC News. The issue has sparked debates within the Republican Party, with some advocating for federal restrictions while others remain hesitant or opposed to such measures.