U.S. births declined in 2025, according to newly released provisional data, while indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian officials concluded in Oman without a definitive outcome, and a major California hospital system ended gender-affirming care for youth. These events, along with a controversial social media post by former President Donald Trump, marked a busy day in the news on February 6, 2026.
U.S. births fell slightly in 2025, with just over 3.6 million births reported through birth certificates, approximately 24,000 fewer than in 2024, according to Fortune. This decline appears to confirm predictions by some experts who doubted the 2024 increase marked the beginning of an upward trend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its provisional birth data late last week, offering the first comprehensive look at last year's figures. Robert Anderson, who oversees birth and death tracking, stated that the final tally might only add a few thousand additional births.
Meanwhile, indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian officials wrapped up in Oman without a conclusive outcome, NPR reported. Iran's foreign minister described the talks as a "good start," noting that both sides agreed to continue discussions. The high-stakes talks occurred as the U.S. builds up military forces in the region, according to NPR.
In California, the largest children's hospital system discontinued some gender-affirming care, NPR also reported. The system cited pressures from the Trump administration as a factor in the decision. Many hospitals and clinics have scaled back this type of care in the past year.
Former President Donald Trump's social media post featuring Barack and Michelle Obama was deleted after a bipartisan backlash, according to Fortune. The post, which depicted the Obamas as primates, was criticized as racist by both Republicans and Democrats. The White House initially defended the post but later blamed a staffer for its erroneous posting, according to Fortune.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment