Trump continues to interfere with global aid

Despite the Trump administration’s massive cuts to global aid this year, Congress has continued to work on a bipartisan basis to protect funding for two effective programs: PEPFAR, the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the Global Fund. This congressionally-approved money is now being withheld, not because of the government shutdown, but due to active non-compliance by the administration.

The Office of Management and Budget is denying $2.9 billion to PEPFAR while the State Department is withholding $1.25 billion from the Global Fund. PEPFAR was created by President George W. Bush and has been credited with saving over 25 million lives by supporting the treatment of HIV/AIDS, mainly in African countries. The Global Fund, which is an international collaboration, has saved over 65 million lives in a similar time frame, by treating HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. Both programs are effective and efficient. America’s creation of PEPFAR and contributions to the Global Fund are something our nation should be proud of. We are a strong, global leader who provides others with a helping hand. That is America at its best.

But now, this obstruction is costing lives and bringing our nation shame instead of pride. I urge our congressional representatives to pressure the Administration to release these approved, lifesaving funds immediately. My fellow citizens can learn more and contact our representatives by visiting act.pih.org/pepfar-apportionment

Logan Drake

Coralville