710,000 fewer babies were born last year in U.S. compared with two decades ago - NPR

Preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show the U.S. had roughly 710,000 fewer births last year than at the nation’s peak in 2007, as the fertility rate fell to historic lows. The decline reflects a steep drop in teen pregnancies and a notable shift toward women delaying motherhood into their 30s and 40s. These demographic changes intersect with ongoing policy debates about birthright citizenship, economic uncertainty, rising health costs, and women’s reproductive health concerns. The trend could have long-term effects on labor supply, social programs, and how policies that affect newborns are designed and implemented.