Former President Donald Trump announced his intention to dismantle a federal initiative aimed at expanding internet access in underserved communities. Trump criticized the Digital Equity Act, calling the program racially biased in its allocation of grants and vowed to end what he described as unconstitutional spending.
Trump Denounces Program as ‘Unconstitutional’
“I’ve spoken with my outstanding Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, and we concur that the Biden-Harris so-called ‘Digital Equity Act’ is entirely UNCONSTITUTIONAL. No more politically correct giveaways based on race!” Trump wrote in a social media post on Thursday. He framed the initiative as a misuse of taxpayer money based on racial considerations.
A $2.75 Billion Federal Effort Under Scrutiny
The Digital Equity Act was part of the broader infrastructure package signed into law by President Joe Biden. The program allocates $2.75 billion to expand digital access and literacy, with oversight by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). According to the NTIA, the initiative aims to ensure every American has the skills and tools to participate in the digital economy.
Immediate Halt Pledged by Trump
Trump called the initiative “a DISCRIMINATORY and ILLEGAL $2.5 BILLION handout,” declaring his intention to “halt it IMMEDIATELY to protect taxpayers from further financial exploitation.” While Trump did not explain the $250 million discrepancy in his statement, he doubled down on claims that the act favored recipients based on race.
Part of Broader Push Against Diversity Programs
The move aligns with Trump’s broader efforts to dismantle federal policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Conservative critics argue that such programs unfairly disadvantage white Americans and violate constitutional principles of equal treatment.

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Commerce Secretary’s Role in Announcement
Trump’s mention of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, a business executive who has not previously served in government, raised questions about his policy advisory team. The Biden administration has not yet responded publicly to Trump’s declaration.
Democrats Likely to Challenge Legal Grounds
Legal experts anticipate significant pushback if Trump attempts to revoke the program, as it is part of congressionally approved legislation. Democrats are expected to defend the program as essential for bridging the digital divide in America’s most neglected regions.
Former President Donald Trump announced his intention to dismantle a federal initiative aimed at expanding internet access in underserved communities. Trump criticized the Digital Equity Act, calling the program racially biased in its allocation of grants and vowed to end what he described as unconstitutional spending.
Trump Denounces Program as ‘Unconstitutional’
“I’ve spoken with my outstanding Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, and we concur that the Biden-Harris so-called ‘Digital Equity Act’ is entirely UNCONSTITUTIONAL. No more politically correct giveaways based on race!” Trump wrote in a social media post on Thursday. He framed the initiative as a misuse of taxpayer money based on racial considerations.
A $2.75 Billion Federal Effort Under Scrutiny
The Digital Equity Act was part of the broader infrastructure package signed into law by President Joe Biden. The program allocates $2.75 billion to expand digital access and literacy, with oversight by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). According to the NTIA, the initiative aims to ensure every American has the skills and tools to participate in the digital economy.
Immediate Halt Pledged by Trump
Trump called the initiative “a DISCRIMINATORY and ILLEGAL $2.5 BILLION handout,” declaring his intention to “halt it IMMEDIATELY to protect taxpayers from further financial exploitation.” While Trump did not explain the $250 million discrepancy in his statement, he doubled down on claims that the act favored recipients based on race.
Part of Broader Push Against Diversity Programs
The move aligns with Trump’s broader efforts to dismantle federal policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Conservative critics argue that such programs unfairly disadvantage white Americans and violate constitutional principles of equal treatment.
Commerce Secretary’s Role in Announcement
Trump’s mention of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, a business executive who has not previously served in government, raised questions about his policy advisory team. The Biden administration has not yet responded publicly to Trump’s declaration.
Democrats Likely to Challenge Legal Grounds
Legal experts anticipate significant pushback if Trump attempts to revoke the program, as it is part of congressionally approved legislation. Democrats are expected to defend the program as essential for bridging the digital divide in America’s most neglected regions.