Several Republicans vying for congressional seats in 2024 are rapidly distancing themselves from a contentious Alabama Supreme Court ruling perceived as infringing on In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) rights. This ruling is the latest hurdle for GOP candidates in the post-Roe era.
From House to Senate races, both new and incumbent candidates are actively seeking to counter Democratic criticisms that the Alabama decision is just the latest in a series of GOP attempts to curtail reproductive rights. The party is urging its members to proactively address the issue.
“As someone who struggled to get pregnant, I believe all life is a gift. IVF allowed me, as it has so many others, to start my family,” said California Republican Rep. Michelle Steel, who represents a district carried by Biden. “I believe there is nothing more pro-life than helping families have children, and I do not support federal restrictions on IVF.”
Republican Rep. Don Bacon, who is also running in a swing district in Nebraska, echoed Steel’s sentiments, stating, “I want to give those who want to be moms and dads that opportunity. Therefore, I will not support restrictions to IVF.”
The Alabama Supreme Court ruled earlier this month that frozen embryos are children and those who destroy them can be held liable for wrongful death. This decision led several fertility clinics in the state to temporarily halt IVF treatments. Democrats quickly seized on the decision as further evidence of the Republicans’ long-standing push to overturn Roe v. Wade and its ripple effects in the states.
On the campaign trail, the National Republican Congressional Committee is trying to help candidates navigate this politically challenging moment. Mike Berg, the National Republican Senatorial Campaign communications director, told CNN, “There is not a single Republican Senate candidate in the entire country proposing a ban on IVF.”
The NRSC also sent a memo to their GOP candidates encouraging them to “clearly and concisely reject efforts by the government to restrict IVF.” The memo outlines a recent poll showing the popularity of the procedure even among conservatives and advises candidates to “express support for IVF” and “oppose restrictions” on the procedure.
“Campaign on increasing access. Advocate for policies that increase access to fertility treatments including insurance coverage and support services. Position this stance as part of a broader commitment to health care accessibility and family support,” the memo states.
While some members of Congress have struggled to clearly articulate their position, many who are running in tough races are trying to quickly get out ahead of potential attacks. GOP Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina, one of the loudest critics of her party’s abortion message, told CNN she is exploring legislation to protect a woman’s access to IVF.
Even some conservatives are going out of their way to express support for IVF and distance themselves from the Alabama ruling. Rep. Kat Cammack, co-chairwoman of the bipartisan Women’s Caucus and a member of the conservative Republican Study Committee, told reporters, “I think IVF is really, really important for families that are struggling to conceive. I honestly am shocked that this is a conversation that we’re having in 2024.”
Asked if she would support legislation to ensure access to fertility treatments, the Florida Republican said, “If we’re going to be pro-family, that means that we have to support families that are having difficulties conceiving wanting to grow their families.”