It needs to be pointed out that we did not in fact replace any liberals or court activists on this issue. What finally happened was that Justice Kennedy was persuaded to recognize the over-breadth of the pro-abortionists claims....claims which expressly discussed in prior dicta stating where and when such claims would be invalid.
O'Conner was an activist on this issue. Kennedy has always supported a ban on partial-birth and parental notification. Kennedy was not persuaded, that has been his position. Kennedy supports a women's right to abortion, but he believes it can be regulated. O'Conner opposed any restrictions on abortions.