Trump’s New Executive Order on IVF: A Step Forward or Empty Promise?
Trump’s New Executive Order on IVF
Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order on February 18, 2025, in an effort to expand access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and lessen its costs; a move both hopeful and a cause for skepticism. The order follows months of promises on the campaign trail during which Trump called himself the “father of IVF” and promised to make the costly fertility treatment free for families. But what does this order really do? Let’s break it down.
What the Executive Order Does
The executive order instructs Trump’s domestic policy team to make recommendations within 90 days to “aggressively reduce” out-of-pocket and insurance payments associated with IVF treatments. It also advocates for loosening regulatory hurdles to make IVF “dramatically more affordable”.
Key points include:
Cost Reduction Goals: The order notes that IVF cycles range from $12,000 to $25,000, with many families needing several. It advocates for policies that reduce these costs .
Insurance Coverage Gaps: Only 25% of employers cover IVF currently, and most states don’t have mandates for insurance coverage. The order is trying to correct that imbalance.
Federal Support: In the order, the federal government both recognizes the role of IVF in family formation, noting the over 85,000 IVF-born infants in 2021, and is consistent with Trump’s wider pro-family policies, including an expanded child tax credit.
But the order is toothless, critics say. It does not require immediate action, set an investment budget or mandate IVF be covered by insurers — and goes well beyond Trump’s 2024 campaign vow that the government or insurers would pay for treatments.
Reality check on Trump and IVF promises
Trump made daring assertations while campaigning for 2024:
“Government or Insurance Will Pay”: In August 2024, he declared, “Under the Trump administration, your government will pay for or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for all CAVFIV costs”.
Self-Professed “Father of IVF”: At a Fox News town hall, Trump crazily called himself the “father of IVF,” though he admitted he had only learned about the procedure a few months earlier.
But the executive order does not go that far. It pushes it down the road to advisors for recommendations, rather than specific funding or mandates. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt blasted the order as “promises made, promises kept” on social media, but the order was “toothless,” even in conservative outlets like The New Republic.
IVF Costs: A Barrier to Access
IVF is beyond the reach of many Americans financially. Here’s why:
Expensive Per Cycle: A single cycle averages $15,000, and there is no promise of success. Families typically require 2–3 cycles, driving costs past $50,000 or more.
Limited Insurance Coverage: A few states mandate partial IVF coverage. Most employer plans and Medicaid do not cover it, leaving families to decimate savings or take out loans.
Emotional Toll: Financial burden adds to the stress of infertility. As RESOLVE CEO Barbara Collura put it, “The biggest barriers are out-of-pocket costs and lack of insurance coverage” .
Knee-Jerk Political Reactions: Positive, Negative, and Hypocritical
Democrats:: Called it a “PR stunt.” Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), who had two kids through IVF, urged Trump to back her proposal mandating insurance coverage rather than “empty gestures”.
Pro-Life Conservatives: Criticized the order on ethical grounds. Anti-abortion organizations such as Live Action claim that IVF “discards millions of embryos,” referring to it as “anti-life.”
Republicans: Continue to be divided. Some cheer Trump’s attention to fertility access, while others killed federal IVF protections in 2024, afraid of alienating anti-abortion voters.
The Shadow of the Alabama Ruling
The order comes after a 2024 Alabama Supreme Court ruling that declared frozen embryos as “children,” jeopardizing access to IVF in the whole state. Clinics suspended services until Governor Kay Ivey enacted a law affording providers liability immunity. Trump distanced himself from the ruling, calling for Alabama to “act quickly” to protect IVF. But his Congressional allies have fought federal protections, exposing families for similar threats at the state-level.
What Comes Next for IVF Access?
So in the following, advocate acts: The executive order is a first step.
Legislation: Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act would require insurance coverage — something Trump could support if he really meant his pledges.
Funding : Federal subsidies or tax breaks will help reduce costs for low-income families.
Awareness: Increasing employer coverage and combatting infertility stigma.
Final Thoughts: Mixed Results for Families
Trump’s IVF order acknowledges the struggles of millions who want to grow their families. But without funding, mandates or bipartisan support, it could become another broken promise. For now, families grappling with infertility will have to make do with patchwork solutions — and pray that the 90-day review brings about meaningful change.
One thing is clear as this debate continues: Affordable IVF is not just a policy issue. It’s about allowing families to experience the joy of parenthood. Whether this order fulfills that dream is another question.
About the Creator
Germany’s Nationalist AfD Party Hopes to Take Power in 2026
Germany’s political landscape is facing a potential shift as the nationalist Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party sets its sights on the 2026 elections. Known for its right-wing populist agenda, anti-immigration rhetoric, and Euroscepticism, the AfD has steadily gained traction over the past decade. While mainstream parties continue to dominate national politics, analysts warn that the AfD’s growing influence could reshape Germany’s policy direction and challenge the country’s longstanding commitment to liberal democracy. The Origins of the AfD Founded in 2013, the AfD initially positioned itself as a Eurosceptic party, opposing the European Union’s handling of the eurozone crisis. Over time, the party shifted its focus toward nationalist and anti-immigration policies, tapping into public frustration over migration, globalization, and perceived threats to German cultural identity. The party has also adopted a strong stance against climate regulations and progressive social policies, appealing to conservative voters who feel alienated by Germany’s traditional political parties. These positions have allowed the AfD to carve out a niche in Germany’s fragmented political landscape. Recent Electoral Gains The AfD has seen steady growth in regional and national elections. In the 2021 federal elections, the party captured around 10% of the vote, becoming the third-largest party in the Bundestag. Its support is particularly strong in eastern Germany, where economic disparities, historical resentment, and dissatisfaction with mainstream politics have contributed to its rise. Political analysts note that the AfD’s success is not only electoral but also cultural. By dominating media narratives on immigration and national identity, the party has shifted public debate and forced mainstream parties to respond to issues they might otherwise have avoided. The 2026 Ambitions Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, the AfD aims to increase its share of seats and, potentially, enter government coalitions at both state and federal levels. Party leaders have emphasized a platform focused on reducing immigration, reforming the European Union, and rolling back environmental regulations. Some strategists within the party believe that growing concerns over energy costs, economic inequality, and social change could bolster voter support. By framing itself as a defender of “traditional German values,” the AfD hopes to attract both its core base and disillusioned voters from the center-right spectrum. Controversies and Criticism The AfD’s rise has not been without controversy. Critics accuse the party of promoting xenophobia, undermining democratic norms, and fostering extremist tendencies. Multiple AfD members have faced scrutiny for inflammatory remarks, associations with far-right groups, and attempts to normalize nationalist rhetoric. Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has labeled parts of the AfD as “suspected extremist,” monitoring its activities closely. Opposition parties argue that allowing the AfD into power could threaten Germany’s democratic institutions and international reputation. Public Perception and Support Despite criticism, the AfD retains a loyal voter base. Many supporters argue that the party addresses real concerns about immigration, economic stagnation, and EU bureaucracy that they feel are ignored by mainstream parties. Polls suggest that younger voters and urban populations are less supportive of the AfD, while older, rural, and economically disadvantaged communities continue to provide the party with significant backing. Analysts believe that the 2026 elections could hinge on turnout in these demographic groups. Implications for Germany and Europe The AfD’s potential rise has implications beyond Germany’s borders. As Europe faces migration pressures, energy crises, and political polarization, the success of a nationalist party in one of the continent’s largest economies could inspire similar movements in other countries. European Union leaders have expressed concern that an AfD-led government might adopt policies that clash with EU regulations, potentially straining relations with neighboring countries and weakening cohesion in European decision-making. Challenges Ahead While the AfD hopes to gain power, it faces significant obstacles. Mainstream parties, including the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD), are actively campaigning to prevent the AfD from entering government. Additionally, voter concerns about extremism, international relations, and social stability may limit the party’s growth. Coalition-building will also be a challenge. Many parties have ruled out working with the AfD, meaning that even a strong electoral showing may not translate into executive power. Analysts predict that the AfD’s influence may grow through parliamentary presence rather than direct governance. The Role of Media and Messaging The AfD has been adept at using social media and alternative media platforms to bypass traditional journalistic filters. By framing itself as a voice for the “ignored majority,” the party appeals to voters who distrust mainstream institutions. At the same time, investigative journalism and public awareness campaigns have sought to highlight the party’s extremist tendencies and controversial rhetoric. This ongoing battle over narrative and perception will be crucial in shaping the 2026 elections. Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Germany As Germany approaches 2026, the rise of the AfD represents both an opportunity and a challenge for the nation. For supporters, the party embodies a chance to restore national pride and prioritize domestic concerns. For critics, it threatens to destabilize democratic norms and exacerbate social divisions. The upcoming elections will test Germany’s resilience, political maturity, and commitment to pluralism. Whether the AfD succeeds in taking power or remains a powerful opposition force, its impact on Germany’s political discourse—and the broader European context—will be felt for years to come.
By Aarif Lashari2 days ago in The Swamp
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.