J.D. Vance, the 40-year-old Vice President of the United States, has consistently expressed concern over declining birth rates in the country. He attributes this trend to economic challenges, particularly those faced by Millennials, and has called for policies to encourage higher fertility rates.

Vance’s Advocacy for Increased Birth Rates

Throughout his political career, Vance has emphasized the importance of family and child-rearing. He has criticized the notion that women should prioritize careers over motherhood, suggesting that such a mindset leads to societal issues. In a 2021 interview, Vance stated, “If your worldview tells you that it’s bad for women to become mothers but liberating for them to work 90 hours a week in a cubicle at the New York Times or Goldman Sachs, you’ve been had.

In July 2021, Vance argued that childless Americans should pay higher taxes, reasoning that this would “reward the things that we think are good” and “punish the things that we think are bad.

Millennials’ Economic Struggles

Millennials, generally defined as individuals born between 1981 and 1996, have faced significant economic challenges, including high student loan debt, rising housing costs, and job market instability. These financial pressures have led many Millennials to delay or forgo starting families. A 2017 article from Vox highlighted that Millennials are “facing the scariest financial future of any generation since the Great Depression.

Vance’s Perspective on Millennials’ Economic Challenges

Vance attributes Millennials’ economic hardships to policies implemented during the Trump administration. He suggests that these policies have contributed to financial instability, making it more difficult for young people to afford housing and childcare, thereby discouraging family formation. In a 2024 interview, Vance stated, “The economic policies of the previous administration have made it harder for young people to achieve financial stability, which is a significant factor in their decisions regarding starting families.”

Criticism of Vance’s Views

Vance’s comments on childlessness and family have sparked controversy. In 2021, he referred to childless individuals as “sociopathic” and “psychotic,” suggesting that a lack of children leads to societal instability. These remarks have been criticized as dismissive of personal choices and circumstances.

J.D. Vance’s advocacy for increased birth rates reflects his broader concerns about societal stability and economic policy. While he attributes Millennials’ economic challenges to previous administration policies, his views on family and child-rearing continue to generate debate. As Vice President, Vance’s perspectives will likely influence future discussions on family policy and economic reform.

Last modified: February 18, 2025