Trump says he's the 'father of IVF' — and that he just recently learned what it is
NBCOCT 28 2024
Trump Signs Executive Order to Expand IVF Access
Above: Donald Trump delivers remarks before signing an executive order on expanding access to IVF at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Feb. 18, 2025. Image copyright: Joe Raedle/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The Trump administration is taking concrete steps to protect reproductive rights and family planning options. This executive order highlights Trump's strong commitment to family formation and addresses a crucial healthcare need affecting one in seven couples trying to conceive. It will help make the dream of parenthood more accessible to loving families while supporting population growth and family values.
Democratic narrative
The executive order is merely a PR stunt that doesn't actually guarantee coverage or affordability of IVF treatments. The administration's track record on reproductive rights, including appointments of Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, contradicts this superficial support for fertility treatments. The order lacks specific implementation details and doesn't address the immediate needs of families struggling with infertility.