Trump Promises to End Digital Equity Act If Reelected
Former President Donald Trump announced at a Detroit rally that he would end the Digital Equity Act if he wins the next presidential election. Trump criticized the federal program, saying it is wasteful and filled with what he called “woke ideology.” His statement sparked debate about the future of internet access in America.
What Is the Digital Equity Act?
The Digital Equity Act is a federal law that was passed in 2021 as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It provides $2.75 billion in grants to states and organizations. The goal is to help all Americans have affordable and reliable internet service, especially people who:
- Live in rural areas
- Have low incomes
- Belong to other underserved groups
Trump Calls the Program “Wasteful”
Speaking to a crowd in Detroit, Trump said, “We will end Joe Biden’s Digital Equity Act on day one.” He claimed the program is “just another way for Democrats to push their radical agenda and waste your tax dollars.” Trump also argued that the program focuses too much on what he called “woke nonsense.”
Biden Administration Defends the Program
President Joe Biden and his team have made expanding internet access a major goal. The Digital Equity Act is a key part of their plan to improve the country’s infrastructure. The White House says the program will:
- Boost economic opportunities by helping people find jobs online
- Improve education by making remote learning possible for all students
- Increase access to telehealth, so people can see doctors online
Supporters Say Ending the Act Would Hurt Americans
Many digital equity advocates and state officials believe ending the program would harm millions of Americans. Angela Siefer, executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, said, “Ending the Digital Equity Act would be a huge mistake. This program is helping states and communities develop real solutions to close the digital divide. Rolling it back would hurt the very people who need help the most.”
Advocates say the grants are especially important for:
- Students who need the internet for homework
- People looking for jobs online
- Families who live in places where internet is slow or unavailable
States Are Working on Their Own Plans
Right now, states across the country are writing digital equity plans. These plans are required to get the federal grants from the Digital Equity Act. Many local leaders believe this money is vital to modern life and to closing the “digital divide” between those who have internet and those who do not.
Debate Over “Woke Ideology” and Priorities
Trump accused the Biden administration of using the program to promote “divisive” policies. He told his supporters, “We need to focus on real infrastructure, not woke nonsense.” Some of Trump’s supporters agree with him, believing the money should go toward roads, bridges, and other traditional infrastructure projects.
Others disagree, saying that in today’s world, internet access is as important as roads or electricity. They argue that without internet, it is hard for people to get jobs, do schoolwork, or even access healthcare.
The Future of the Digital Equity Act Depends on the Election
The fate of the Digital Equity Act is not certain. Much will depend on who wins the 2024 presidential election and what Congress decides about federal spending. If Trump wins and follows through on his promise, the program could end. If Biden is reelected or Congress supports the program, it is likely to continue.
Key Points to Remember
- The Digital Equity Act provides $2.75 billion to help all Americans get reliable internet.
- Trump has promised to end the program if he is elected again, calling it wasteful and unnecessary.
- Biden and many experts say the program is critical for jobs, education, and healthcare.
- The future of the program will be decided by voters and lawmakers in the coming year.
As the debate continues, millions of Americans who struggle with slow or no internet access will be watching closely to see what happens next.