Last week, former President Donald Trump
introduced an unexpected proposal to fund in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments
through government or insurance coverage, stirring a deep divide within the Republican Party. Two
prominent Republican senators, Tom Cotton and Lindsey Graham, showcased the party's split on
the issue during separate interviews on Sunday. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) expressed strong support
for the proposal, suggesting that many Republicans might back it if the fiscal implications are
manageable. Cotton highlighted the high costs of IVF for couples and voiced openness to exploring
the idea further. He argued that supporting fertility treatments aligns with the party’s
values and doesn’t pose a major controversy. In contrast, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)
rejected the idea of mandating insurance coverage for IVF, warning against its
potential financial burden. Instead, Graham advocated for a tax credit approach,
similar to existing credits for childrearing, arguing it would better incentivize fertility
treatments without overextending government spending. Graham described Trump’s proposal as a
gesture of support rather than a practical policy. This debate follows recent GOP resistance to
expanding access to IVF, as evidenced by the party’s opposition to a June bill aimed at
increasing fertility treatment access. The split underscores ongoing tensions within the
GOP over healthcare funding and social issues.