Understanding the threat to public health

Under the Trump administration, we have seen a slew of proposed public health policies that threaten to undermine decades of progress in protecting the health of individuals, families, and communities across the United States.

These dangerous proposals, including those outlined in Project 2025, jeopardize critical public health systems, weaken protections for vulnerable populations and risk worsening health inequities.

But APHA is fighting back. We remain steadfast in our efforts to challenge harmful policies, advocate for evidence-based approaches and defend the well-being of all Americans. 

APHA's role in defending public health

Advocacy to protect public health

APHA has been part of successful litigation and action challenging some of the biggest threats to public health. Read the latest testimony, comments and briefs and read all public letters to congress and federal agencies from APHA, including:

• APHA, nonprofits, unions and local governments sue the Trump administration over massive unconstitutional federal agency reorganization and reductions in force
• APHA weighs in on FY 2026 funding for public health agencies
• National Public Health Week resolution introduced in the Senate

Initiatives challenging threats to public health

For Our Health: APHA launched a new initiative, ‘For Our Health,’ which builds on our longstanding commitment to champion optimal, equitable health and well-being for all. The members of For Our Health include former Secretaries of HHS, directors of the CDC, and former state health directors. For more information visit www.forourhealth.org.

Support for fired public health workers: To support those whose careers have been impacted by the increase in public health job losses, we've compiled a list of public health organizations and resources that provide job listings, professional development and networking opportunities in the public health sector.

APHA speaks out in the news

Learn more about all the ways APHA has spoken out in the media about these critical issues, including in The Hill, CNN, Politico, C-SPAN, ABC News, NBC News, Los Angeles Times, and more.

Read the latest press releases from APHA:

• Decimated public health systems, a depleted federal workforce and the deletion of safety nets that maintain the health security of America are all outcomes of President Trump’s first 100 days
• Massive Coalition of Unions, Non-Profit Groups, and Local Governments File Omnibus Challenge to Unconstitutional Reorganization of Federal Government
• For Our Health warns the proposed HHS budget cuts put Americans at risk

Take action: join APHA in defending public health

Urge your members of Congress to oppose the Trump administration’s efforts to cut our nation’s public health workforce.

Help us fight for science-based policies that prioritize the health and safety of the American people. Stand up for public health interests by donating to help APHA Speak for Health.

Join our community of public health professionals who dedicate their work to protecting public health and become a member of APHA. We have memberships available at various levels designed to accommodate you on your career journey.