What a Second Trump Presidency Could Mean for Academic Public Health

August 7, 2024

As the 2024 election approaches and a second Trump presidency is possible, we have examined what his presidency could mean for academic public health as we also did for the Democratic nominee. Based on Trump's first term, several key areas may see significant changes. Learn more about what his second presidency could mean for academic public health.

• Public Health Funding: The administration's initial budget plans raise concerns about the long-term stability of public health funding and preparedness. Trump has expressed skepticism towards public health measures, notably during COVID-19, and threatened to withhold federal funding from schools with vaccine or mask mandates.

• Focus on the Opioid Crisis: The Trump administration declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency in 2017 and allocated substantial funds to combat it. While the crisis remains a significant challenge, these efforts represented a concerted attempt to tackle a pressing public health issue.

• Increased Scrutiny and Regulation: A potential second Trump administration may scrutinize and regulate higher education institutions more aggressively, targeting issues like free speech, diversity programs, and institutional funding. Trump has supported eliminating the Department of Education, arguing that education should be controlled at the state and local levels rather than by the federal government.

Regardless of the election outcome, ASPPH is committed to advocating for the priorities set forth in our Strategic Plan 2030 and policy priorities.