14 Nov A Note to Academy Members About the U.S. Election Results
A Message from Bruce J. Packett II, Executive Director of the American Academy of HIV Medicine
As the Executive Director of the American Academy of HIV Medicine, I would like to address the outcomes of the presidential and congressional elections last week. As everyone knows, former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance have been elected as the next President and Vice President of the United States. As well, Republicans gained a majority in both houses of Congress, giving President-Elect Trump increased power to reshape health care and other important national policies.
We know the new administration and the new Congress bring with them a large amount of uncertainty and perhaps, in many cases, fear. How health care legislation and policy will take shape as a result of the elections is still unclear, but we will face these challenges together. The Academy will endeavor to work with and around the new administration to continue our efforts to end the HIV epidemic. More than that, though, we pledge to be a beacon of protection for the rights of providers and patients. We will amplify the call for equitable, affordable, and accessible health care for all people, especially for those communities that are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic.
We also will redouble our advocacy efforts as needed, particularly for people who are transgender and others in the LGBTQ community. Together, we will answer any affronts to health care, providers, and patients with a principled response built on the foundation of upholding the basic human rights of all people. The Academy was established as an organization to support and advocate on behalf of providers who care for those with HIV – patients who have historically faced stigma and bigotry. That foundation of ensuring quality health care for all patients is our rock and will hold steady regardless of any waves that might crash against it.