Trump Labels Digital Equity Act ‘Racist’ – What It Means for Your Internet Access

Megan Waiters is a digital navigator in Alabama, who helps people connect to the internet. Her work, vital for many in rural and underserved communities, was supported by a now-defunct federal program. The Digital Equity Act, which included $2.75 billion in funding, aimed to bridge the digital divide, providing access to essential online services for low-income households, older residents, and veterans.

This spring, however, the funding abruptly vanished after a post by former President Donald Trump declared the program unconstitutional and against “woke” policies. Waiters has recounted how she assisted a 7-year-old who needed a tablet for school and a 91-year-old learning to navigate healthcare websites on a smartphone. Many of her clients face significant barriers, lacking the necessary digital skills to manage their health and finances online.

The sudden cut in funding has drawn criticism. Experts, including Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association, highlighted how this decision threatens the ability of rural populations to access critical services, particularly healthcare. A recent analysis indicated that nearly 3 million Americans live in areas with a shortage of healthcare professionals, where poor internet connectivity limits telehealth options.

Christina Filipovic from Tufts University noted that better internet access can lead to better health outcomes. For example, studies show a correlation between high-speed internet access and lower COVID-19 death rates, particularly in urban areas.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act from 2021 aimed to improve internet access across the country with funding for broadband infrastructure. Yet, the recent cancelation of the Digital Equity Act’s funding puts this progress at risk. The Affordable Connectivity Program, which connected 23 million low-income households, also faced funding cuts in 2024.

In response to these changes, state officials are pushing back. In Phoenix, for instance, local leaders were disappointed to lose nearly $12 million due to the funding halt, which would have improved internet accessibility for over 37,000 residents.

Senator Patty Murray, the act’s architect, expressed frustration over the cancellation, noting that even some Republican governors had previously supported the initiative. The digital divide remains stark, with communities suffering from a lack of resources. Leaders from around the country emphasize that digital equity is essential for advancing not only economic opportunities but also public health.

Angela Siefer, executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The digital divide is not over.” Her organization, which aimed to support digital navigators nationwide, is taking legal action to ensure the funds are distributed.

For people like Megan Waiters, denying access means denying opportunity. The push for digital equity continues, but significant challenges remain.



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