Special Poll
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) stated on Sunday that he would not support mandating insurance companies to cover in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments.
Former President Trump recently proposed that his administration would protect access to IVF and ensure that either the government or insurance companies cover the costs if he is re-elected in November.
When asked if he would back Trump’s proposal, Graham responded, “No… no, because there’s no end to that.”
Trump emphasized in an NBC News interview that his plan would cover all Americans who need IVF, without detailing how the mandate would work, but affirmed his support for IVF treatments.
Graham suggested an alternative approach, proposing a means-tested tax credit for people using IVF and other fertility treatments, similar to existing tax credits for families with children.
He highlighted that the Republican Party is not opposed to birth control or IVF treatments, suggesting that Trump’s proposal was an effort to show support for these treatments.
Graham also mentioned the possibility of finding “common ground” with Democrats on this issue.
The Vice President Harris’s campaign criticized Trump’s proposal, calling it “one of his most brazen lies yet,” and pointed out the inconsistency between Trump’s stance on IVF and his role in overturning Roe v. Wade.
IVF has become a significant issue for political figures and voters, especially after a ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that recognized frozen embryos and fertilized eggs as legal persons, which led to a temporary halt in IVF services in the state.
Although legislation was quickly passed to address the legal concerns for IVF providers, the Republican Party has largely avoided discussing abortion and reproductive rights issues ahead of the 2024 election, given the public’s reaction since Roe v. Wade was overturned.
Democrats have frequently blamed Trump for the reversal of Roe v. Wade, as he appointed three justices who were part of the 6-3 majority decision.