Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) stated on Monday that in vitro fertilization should remain accessible in the United States, highlighting the significance of this “amazing technology” as a viable option for aspiring parents.
Cruz discussed a new bill he introduced along with Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL), which aims to make states ineligible for Medicaid funding if their legislatures or courts decide to ban IVF. When questioned about the concerns some religious communities may have regarding IVF, Cruz suggested that individuals could make their “moral” decisions about supporting IVF based on personal faith.
“But as a matter of law, this should be a choice available for parents because it is profoundly pro-family,” Cruz expressed during his appearance on Fox News’s Fox and Friends. “I have many friends — as I’m sure you do — who have become parents through this method, and they cherish their children, want to raise them well, and aim to be wonderful moms and dads.”
Cruz added that he believes the bill should pass with unanimous support, as “every senator,” irrespective of political affiliation, claims to back IVF. He also viewed this legislation as a rare opportunity for Congress to unite in support of family creation.
Britt, who joined Cruz in the interview, argued that members of the Democratic Party are spreading fear that Republicans intend to ban IVF. The Alabama senator confirmed that IVF remains protected and that her joint bill with Cruz will ensure it continues to be safeguarded.
“They know that we are the party of families, Republicans are,” Britt stated. “The party of moms, the party of children, the party of life, and we’re going to keep advancing that cause.”
This recent legislative action follows a decision by Alabama’s top court, which declared that frozen embryos are legally children, and the destruction of these embryos constitutes a crime under the state’s “wrongful death of a minor” law. Republican lawmakers are working to navigate this ruling without alienating voters before the November elections, which mark the first presidential election since Roe v. Wade was overturned.
The legislation from Cruz and Britt is separate from a bill introduced by Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) in January, which seeks to protect IVF access. Many Republicans have opposed Duckworth’s bill, arguing that its broad language could inadvertently extend protections to abortions.
