So high are the stakes that outside groups are directly lobbying members. Population groups are sending out pro-A literature and placing ads in club publications. Stephen Mumford, head of The Center for Research on Population and Security, is among those who point out that the U.S. population, now about 270 million, is expected to rise by 125 million in the next 50 years. Recent immigrants and their children will account for the bulk of that increase. As the population rises, there will be more sprawl, more traffic and more demand for consumer goods, Alternative A's supporters say.
Opponents reply that overpopulation is a global problem.
Some members think the club has already suffered a loss of reputation. The club has a big black eye.