Senate Republicans Reject I.V.F. Bill Again, Defying Trump

On Tuesday, Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic effort to advance legislation aimed at ensuring federal protections and insurance coverage for in vitro fertilization (I.V.F.) treatments. This marks the second time in three months that the GOP has rejected such a measure, which Democrats have used to underscore Republican opposition to abortion rights and its broader implications for reproductive health care access. The vote occurred just weeks before the November elections, highlighting the political stakes involved. Former President Donald Trump, who has positioned himself as a leader on this issue, expressed support for requiring insurance coverage for I.V.F. treatments. However, he did not provide specific details on how this would be implemented. Despite his endorsement, nearly all Republican senators, except for Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, voted against the bill, leaving Democrats nine votes short of the 60 needed to initiate debate. The Democratic leadership, particularly Senator Chuck Schumer, seized on Trump's recent statements to revisit the I.V.F. issue, which has become a significant political liability for Republicans in competitive races. Polls indicate that a majority of Republican voters support access to I.V.F., putting pressure on GOP lawmakers who have been attempting to distance themselves from policies that restrict reproductive rights. As the election approaches, the ongoing debate over reproductive health care, including I.V.F., is likely to remain a focal point for voters, with Democrats aiming to leverage Republican opposition to galvanize support and highlight the potential consequences of GOP policies on access to essential health services.