In a heartfelt moment at a pro-life rally on Friday in Washington, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) shared a personal story that underscores his strong opposition to abortion. Addressing the crowd at the 53rd annual March for Life, Johnson recounted a pivotal moment from his family history that shapes his beliefs today.

“Each of us has a reason for holding these beliefs so dearly, and my life’s story is that reason,” Johnson told the attendees. His words resonated deeply with the audience, bringing attention to his own beginnings as he revealed, “I was the product of an unplanned teen pregnancy exactly one year before Roe in January of 1972. Many people tried to convince my very young parents that they should just ‘take care of that problem.'”

Johnson expressed profound gratitude to his parents for their decision to allow him the chance at life, a sentiment that was met with enthusiastic applause from the attendees. His narrative not only highlighted his personal connection to the cause but also illustrated why he stands firmly against abortion.

The Louisiana Republican’s story was a poignant reminder of the diverse and deeply personal reasons that bring individuals together in advocacy, leaving a lasting impression on those gathered at the rally.

The Louisiana Republican’s personal anecdote was met with raucous applause. 

“I think of the millions of children that did not have that same opportunity, and every single child deserves the opportunity to fulfill their God-given potential,” Johnson continued. “And it is up to us to defend that freedom and that right, that essential freedom to be born, the unalienable right to life that is imperiled in our generation, and we’re so grateful that you are willing to march and stand and speak for that issue.”

In a video message, President Trump told rallygoers the pro-life movement is a “battle that must be fought” and “must be won.” 

“[N]ot only in the corridors of power, but above all, in the hearts and souls of the people,” the president argued. “That is why, under the Trump administration, we’re strongly defending religious liberty. We’re bringing back faith in America. We’re bringing back God.”

Vice President JD Vance appeared at the rally in person – days after announcing that he and his wife Usha are expecting their fourth child. 

“I told you all that one of the things I most wanted in the United States of America was more families and more babies,” the vice president said. “So let the record show you have a vice president who practices what he preaches.”