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US fertility rates hit a record low in 2024, dropping to less than 1.6 children per woman, according to new federal data. This decline, ongoing for nearly two decades, mirrors trends in Western Europe. While the Trump administration attempted to boost rates, experts like Leslie Root suggest it's part of a fertility delay, with population still growing due to a natural increase. Experts attribute the decline to factors like delayed marriage and financial concerns, questioning the effectiveness of government initiatives that fail to address broader issues such as parental leave and affordable childcare.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.