Washington: With the US presidential election set for November 5, Kamala Harris has surged ahead of Donald Trump in the latest polls, prompting a bold move from the Republican candidate. In an unexpected announcement, Trump declared that if he wins the White House, women will receive free IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) treatment, with costs covered by the government or insurance companies.
The issue of IVF and abortion has become a major topic in the US. In June 2022, the Supreme Court overturned the law that allowed abortion, causing widespread discontent among women. Kamala Harris has consistently advocated for women’s reproductive rights, calling for the reversal of the anti-abortion law and the restoration of the previous legal framework. This stance has significantly boosted her support among female voters.
A recent survey indicates that Harris is leading Trump by around 10 points among women voters, which may explain Trump’s sudden pivot towards IVF. Speaking at a campaign event in Michigan, Trump pledged that a future government under his leadership would ensure that all IVF-related expenses are either covered by the state or forced upon insurance companies. “I am a supporter of raising a family,” Trump stated.
In another interview with NBC News, Trump hinted at his shifting position on abortion laws, criticising Florida’s current six-week abortion ban as too restrictive. “Six weeks is too short; it should be more,” he said, acknowledging that many women might not even be aware of their pregnancy within that timeframe.
These recent comments underscore the critical role abortion rights will play in the race for the White House, particularly as Trump tries to bridge the gap with Harris. Notably, three of the Supreme Court judges who voted to overturn the abortion law were appointed during Trump’s administration, and both Trump and the Republican Party have traditionally supported anti-abortion legislation. His recent remarks suggest a potential softening of his stance.
Reports indicate that a single round of IVF in the US can cost up to $10,000 (approximately £8,000), and multiple rounds are often necessary. The process can also be physically demanding and emotionally taxing.
Trump’s promise to cover the costs of IVF treatment would, if implemented, provide significant financial relief to many women. However, this move is widely seen as an attempt to appeal to female voters and bridge the gap between himself and Harris. Only time will tell if these promises will help Trump in his bid for the presidency.
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