Program Support and Criticism
Public health advocates, led by , testified before a subcommittee, emphasizing the importance of the (PEPFAR) in saving over 25 million lives and its potential for diplomatic and economic success.
Republican Rep. criticized a recent violation of the Helms Amendment by PEPFAR in , alleging misuse of funds for abortions under the administration, which he termed a "shocking betrayal".
Program Viability and Future Transition
Despite the controversy, Democratic Rep. Lois Frankel downplayed the significance of the violation, noting it constituted a small fraction of PEPFAR's budget. The program was reauthorized for one year, reflecting concerns over its long-term viability.
Dybul proposed a transition to domestic funding with "tangible, accountable benchmarks," suggesting a shift from financing over time to stronger diplomatic and economic partnerships, aiming to maintain the gains achieved through PEPFAR.