While Republicans consider a compromise regarding the looming “fiscal cliff,” they insist on refusing to learn the lessons of this month’s election when it comes to social issues like abortion. Nationally, the GOP seems to regard the fact that they still maintain majority in the House, one of the few places where they didn’t suffer humiliating defeat, as a mandate from the people. We have already seen this happen in their steadfast refusal to vote for the Senate’s Violence Against Women Act because it would protect Native American women, immigrants, and gay, lesbian or transgender individuals. Unfortunately, as the few states who are still held in Republican majority begin their legislative sessions, we also are witness to brazen acts against women’s rights on a state level.