Sun Sep 15 10:00:19 UTC 2024: ## House Republicans Face Internal Divide Over IVF Legislation Ahead of Election

**WASHINGTON, D.C. -** Despite widespread support for in vitro fertilization (IVF) within the Republican party, House Speaker Mike Johnson’s reluctance to bring legislation supporting IVF to a vote has sparked a behind-the-scenes battle amongst GOP lawmakers.

With the midterm elections approaching, several Republicans, particularly those in competitive districts, are pushing for a vote on IVF legislation to highlight their support for the treatment. Democrats have increasingly raised questions about Republicans’ stance on IVF following an Alabama Supreme Court ruling that classified frozen embryos as human beings, potentially holding those who destroy them liable for wrongful death.

However, Johnson has been hesitant to act, citing concerns that a vote could fail due to the narrow Republican majority and potentially damage GOP members politically. Additionally, Johnson faces pressure from conservative lawmakers who oppose IVF for religious reasons and small-government fiscal hawks who resist government mandates.

While Johnson maintains the Republican party’s support for IVF, he has been intentionally vague about bringing legislation forward, leading some lawmakers to accuse him of “placating” the situation.

“You’re dealing with some people who have older views and tougher districts, and they’re not going to move,” one GOP lawmaker stated regarding Johnson and his leadership team.

Despite Johnson’s reservations, some Republicans believe that the party needs to take a more active stance on IVF to counter Democratic criticism and appeal to moderate voters.

“My conference is hesitant to move on bills of this nature, but I think they understand more and more that there is a need to,” said one Republican lawmaker who has been advocating for the legislation.

However, with the House scheduled to be in session for only a few weeks before the election, Johnson’s primary focus remains on keeping the government funded past the September 30 deadline.

While some Republican lawmakers believe that voting on IVF legislation would benefit the party, others, including those who support IVF, argue that forcing a vote before the election would be a purely political move.

“I still don’t even understand why we’re being asked about do Republicans support IVF,” stated GOP Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida.

With the House GOP facing internal divisions and the pressure of the upcoming election, it remains unclear whether they will be able to find common ground on IVF legislation before November.

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