URGENT UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik has shifted her position on in vitro fertilization (IVF) and contraception access, just ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial race in New York. On Wednesday, she announced her co-sponsorship of a bill by Rep. Mike Lawler aimed at introducing a new tax credit for IVF users, igniting a fierce backlash from Governor Kathy Hochul‘s campaign.
This announcement comes just months after Stefanik publicly opposed IVF and contraception in an October 2024 radio interview, where she stated, “I oppose access to IVF (and) access to birth control.” The Hochul campaign quickly seized on this contradiction, sharing audio from the interview to highlight Stefanik’s inconsistency.
Hochul’s campaign spokesperson, Sarafina Chitika, criticized Stefanik, stating, “Just like Trump, Stefanik is lying through her teeth about her record.” This exchange underscores the escalating tensions surrounding reproductive rights as both candidates gear up for the impending election.
Stefanik’s recent change of heart raises critical questions about her genuine stance on reproductive issues. While her team later claimed she “misspoke” during the interview, it is clear that her earlier comments have become a focal point of contention. “I’ve always spoken to this issue with compassion, and I strongly support IVF,” she stated in a March 2024 NBC article, contrasting sharply with her previous remarks.
The legislation she co-sponsored, the IVF Access and Affordability Act, was introduced in March but has yet to advance in Congress. Stefanik emphasized that this bill aims to ease the financial burden of IVF for families struggling with infertility, stating, “As the mom of a young son, I hope to make the joy of raising a family more accessible.”
The clash over reproductive rights highlights a pivotal moment in New York politics as the state prepares for potentially historic gubernatorial elections, marking the first time two women may compete for the office. Democrats have made reproductive rights central to their campaign strategy since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and they are expected to leverage these issues as the election approaches.
As Stefanik navigates her changing positions, she may face challenges from within her party. Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive, is considering a run for governor and has a history of supporting abortion rights. His stance could pose a significant threat in a Republican primary, especially as polls reveal consistent support for abortion rights among New York voters, with a recent survey indicating that 65% of voters favor enshrining these rights in the state constitution.
Despite the potential challenges, Stefanik currently holds a lead over Blakeman in hypothetical primary matchups, with a recent poll showing her at 74% compared to Blakeman’s 5%. However, the political landscape is shifting rapidly, and voter sentiment surrounding reproductive rights will be critical in the upcoming elections.
The immediate focus will be on how Stefanik’s evolving stance impacts her campaign and whether it resonates with voters as reproductive rights become a central issue in New York’s political arena. Observers will be closely watching the developments in this high-stakes race as both candidates prepare for what promises to be a contentious battle.
