Whip Clark: “It’s Not the Government’s Place To Tell You If and When and How To Start a Family.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In recognition of World IVF Day, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) joined Rep. Susan Wild (PA-7), the Democratic Women's Caucus, and the Pro-Choice Caucus to stand against the MAGA Republican assault on IVF and reproductive freedom on behalf of women and families across America. Below is a transcript of her remarks:

"Thank you, Congresswoman Wild. You have been our vanguard in this fight for freedom and common sense, and we are so grateful for your leadership.

"And this is a battle for basic beliefs shared by the vast majority of Americans. The principle that there is no freedom in America without reproductive freedom. That it's not the government's place to tell you if and when and how to start a family. That Donald Trump doesn't belong in your bedroom or your exam room.

"And nearly half a century after IVF first brought [a] child into the world, we're still seeing extremists who want to shut down treatment, board up clinics, and deny parents the joy of having a child.

"Why? Because their extreme ideology is rooted in control. More control for them - less freedom for you. More power in their hands - fewer options in yours.

"That's why Speaker Johnson refuses to put this bill on the Floor. It's why they're marching toward a nationwide abortion ban. But Democrats are fighting back.

"This discharge petition is a chance for every single Member of the House to show where they stand. I hope Republicans will stand up for freedom. I hope they'll stand up for the tens of thousands of aspiring parents. Or will they continue to stand by Donald Trump and MAGA extremism?

"House Democrats are proud to stand on the side of the American people. But we will not let up [until] reproductive freedom is returned to every woman - to every family - in every zip code in this country.

"Every step of the way, we'll be strengthened by the leadership of people in our Caucus like Susan Wild and like my friend from Atlanta, a proud Planned Parenthood alumna, Vice Chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus: Congresswoman Nikema Williams."

The full press conference can be viewed HERE. Photos of the event can be viewed HERE.