Democrats New Plan To Trap The GOP
Senate Democrats are pushing a strategic move this week with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) planning another vote on in vitro fertilization (IVF) access. This comes after former President Trump’s recent call for insurance companies to cover IVF treatments stirred the pot among his supporters, complicating the issue for Republicans.
For months, Democrats have been gaining momentum on this topic, and Trump’s recent stance is fueling a renewed effort to push the same bill through Congress. “IVF has become a central topic, especially after Trump positioned himself as a strong advocate for it,” noted Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). “It’s crucial to have a recorded vote on this matter, as it’s likely to be a significant issue in the upcoming campaign.”
Durbin dismissed the focus on IVF as merely a temporary issue, akin to Trump’s proposal to eliminate taxes on tips. Despite their efforts, Republicans are striving to counter the narrative that they are opposed to IVF. They point out that the initial controversy over IVF stemmed from a court decision in Alabama, not from any action by GOP legislators, and that the state’s Republican leadership was quick to seek a legislative solution.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) highlighted the irony of IVF being a point of contention, saying, “Republicans have always been supportive of increasing the birth rate. We didn’t start this debate.”
In June, only Senators Susan Collins (Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) crossed party lines to support a proposal by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). A similar outcome is anticipated for the upcoming vote. However, some Democrats see Trump’s endorsement of IVF coverage as a potential game-changer, which could sway more Republican votes, even if it doesn’t immediately alter the vote count.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) suggested that Trump’s unexpected support might create a new opportunity to advance IVF coverage legislation. While immediate changes are unlikely, if Trump wins the presidency again, there could be more support for mandating IVF coverage.
Several Republicans, including Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), have shown openness to exploring this issue, recognizing the financial burden of IVF. Capito, a GOP leader, expressed a willingness to examine the idea further. Cramer and other Trump supporters view the debate as worthwhile, particularly if Trump returns to the White House.
Conversely, some Republicans remain skeptical about a government or insurance mandate. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) opposes the mandate, preferring a means-tested tax credit instead. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) expressed hesitation, citing the need to address more pressing fiscal issues before considering IVF coverage.
Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a candidate for top Senate Republican leadership, acknowledged the complexities of adding more insurance mandates, emphasizing the need for a thorough discussion on the financial implications.
Overall, while Democrats are eager to leverage Trump’s support for IVF coverage, many Republicans are still debating the best approach, balancing policy preferences with broader fiscal considerations.
