Washington, Aug. 31: Donald Trump is facing criticism from both anti-abortion activists and members of his own party after suggesting that Florida's six-week abortion ban is too restrictive. In an interview with NBC News, Trump said, "I think six weeks is too short. It needs to be more time."

This isn't the first time Trump has criticized the ban. Last year, he called it a “terrible mistake” when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed it into law. DeSantis was challenging Trump in the Republican primary at the time. Trump's recent comments have widened the gap between him and the anti-abortion movement, which is influential in conservative politics.

Conservative pundit Erick Erickson said that Trump's stance could cost him support among pro-life voters. Albert Mohler Jr., a leader in the Southern Baptist community, also expressed concern, saying that Trump's comments might alienate pro-life voters.

In November, Florida voters will decide on a ballot measure that could amend the state constitution to protect abortion access up to about 23-25 weeks of pregnancy. Currently, Florida's law bans most abortions after six weeks, a time when many women do not yet know they are pregnant.

The Trump campaign has not clarified how he will vote on the measure, but his comments have sparked debate within the Republican Party. Abortion has become a key issue in the 2024 presidential campaign, with Trump walking a fine line between his previous promises to restrict abortion and the political backlash following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Trump's running mate, Senator JD Vance, said that Trump will make his decision based on his own judgment.

Meanwhile, polls suggest that a majority of Americans support abortion access, with a July poll indicating that 69% of likely Florida voters support the ballot measure.-Agencies