Donald Trump has proposed a controversial new incentive aimed at increasing the U.S. birthrate, which has been steadily declining over the past few decades. The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 2.1 births per woman in 1990—enough to maintain the population—to just 1.62 in 2023, according to the CDC. Experts link the decline to rising living costs, changing social values, and the prevalence of dual-income households.

In response, various groups have suggested solutions to reverse this trend, including offering a $5,000 “baby bonus” to new mothers, expanding child tax credits, and even reserving a portion of Fulbright scholarships for married individuals or those with children. Some ideas also propose increased funding for menstrual cycle education. The concern over declining birthrates has gained support from figures like Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, who argue the issue poses long-term risks to the economy and social systems.

Trump, who has five children with three women, has aligned himself with this movement, often emphasizing the importance of the nuclear family. His platform, outlined in the Project 2025 policy agenda, places family issues at the forefront, advocating for a traditional view of family structure—primarily marriage between a man and a woman. This vision notably excludes non-traditional family models, drawing criticism from those who view it as exclusionary.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump’s approach, saying the former president is committed to strengthening American families and helping children achieve the American dream. As a mother herself, she expressed pride in working for a leader who, in her view, is making strides to ensure a brighter future for the next generation.

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