In a recent statement, former President Donald Trump has declared that, should he return to the White House, he will ensure that in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments are covered by either insurance companies or the government. During an NBC News interview on Thursday, Trump reaffirmed his longstanding support for IVF, emphasizing his commitment to making these treatments more accessible.
This new pledge from Trump comes amid criticism from his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, and other Democratic leaders who argue that Republican-driven abortion restrictions might jeopardize access to fertility treatments. Harris and her allies contend that such restrictions could exacerbate the challenges faced by those seeking IVF.
Trump’s position might create friction with conservative anti-abortion activists who advocate for restricting IVF due to concerns about the disposal of unused embryos. Despite this potential conflict, Trump stood firm in his commitment during the NBC interview. “Under a Trump administration, IVF treatments will be covered,” he asserted. “We will either mandate that insurance companies cover these costs or provide government funding.”
IVF procedures are notoriously expensive, often costing around $20,000 per cycle, and typically lack insurance coverage in the United States. Trump did not provide specific details on how his proposed policy would be implemented or funded.
The Harris-Walz campaign quickly criticized Trump’s stance, linking it to the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, a ruling that has shifted the authority to regulate abortion to state governments. Critics argue that Trump’s policies have already eroded reproductive rights, with several states imposing stringent abortion restrictions.
“Trump’s reversal of Roe v. Wade has led to increased attacks on IVF and the erosion of women’s rights in many states,” said Sarafina Chitika, spokesperson for the Harris campaign. “His new proposal does little to address the broader impact of his administration’s policies on reproductive health.”
Trump has previously highlighted his role in appointing three conservative justices to the Supreme Court who supported the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, a point he has proudly boasted about. However, he has also sought to distance himself from criticisms related to his abortion stance, especially as Harris uses these concerns to rally voters.
In his interview, Trump, who resides in Florida, also addressed a state ballot measure that proposes a six-week abortion ban. Trump criticized the measure, stating, “A six-week ban is too restrictive. There needs to be more time,” and indicated his intention to vote against it.
The issue of IVF gained prominence in February when the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos should be considered children under state law. This decision prompted Trump to call for a legislative solution to protect IVF access in Alabama, which resulted in a law safeguarding the practice.
This controversy surrounding IVF has highlighted its importance in the broader debate over reproductive rights. According to a Pew Survey, 42% of Americans have either undergone IVF treatments or know someone who has, with the percentage higher among higher-income individuals. Many of these voters, who tend to lean Republican, are crucial to Trump’s strategy to regain support after the 2020 election.
At a rally in Michigan on Thursday, Trump reiterated his position, telling supporters, “Your government or your insurance company will be required to cover all expenses related to IVF treatment.” Despite his assurances, Democrats remain skeptical about the feasibility of such a policy under a Trump administration.
“Voters have witnessed Trump’s role in undermining Roe v. Wade and paving the way for extreme restrictions on reproductive rights,” said Aida Ross, spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee. “In November, Americans will have the opportunity to support the Harris-Walz ticket and safeguard their freedoms against Trump’s relentless attacks on fundamental rights.”