Re: The government’s pronatalism warps family values

The Los Angeles Times published an op-ed critiquing pronatalism in the Trump administration. We responded with a letter to the editor, which wasn’t published, so we are featuring it here.

We encourage all our members and supporters to make their voices heard! See our media guide for advice on how to do that.

Dear Editor,

Ms. Abcarian’s criticism of MAGA pronatalists’ creepy push for more births is spot-on.

Population Connection recently conducted a survey looking into the factors that shape young Americans’ childbearing decisions. We found that the top two limiting factors were concern over the state of the world and affordability. Mental health and worries over abortion restrictions were also major concerns.

Instead of working to remove these barriers, the Trump administration is actively worsening them.

Let’s also not forget that declining fertility is a positive development. For one, it’s a result of women gaining more choices (the majority of our survey respondents said they want a small family). Secondly, it leads to reduced population growth. The UN projects our global population won’t peak until the 2080s, at over 10 billion. In light of escalating environmental crises, the real problem is still very much over-, not underpopulation.

Sincerely,

Olivia Nater
Communications Manager
Population Connection