Public Policy & NGOs
Here's a look at documents from public policy and non-governmental organizations
Public Policy & NGOs
Featured Stories
Unions, Nonprofits Representing Journalists, Writers, Communications Professionals Petition FCC to Stay Order That Would Allow Massive Media Consolidations
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release:
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Unions and Nonprofits Representing Journalists, Writers, and Communications Professionals Petition FCC to Stay Order That Would Allow Massive Media Consolidations
FCC Repeals Rule Protecting Local Reporting From Harms of Corporate Consolidation
October 9, 2026
Washington, D.C. - A coalition of unions and nonprofit organizations representing journalists, writers, and other ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release: * * * Unions and Nonprofits Representing Journalists, Writers, and Communications Professionals Petition FCC to Stay Order That Would Allow Massive Media Consolidations FCC Repeals Rule Protecting Local Reporting From Harms of Corporate Consolidation October 9, 2026 Washington, D.C. - A coalition of unions and nonprofit organizations representing journalists, writers, and othercommunications professionals have moved the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to stay a recent FCC Order repealing its longstanding and Congressionally required National Television Multiple Ownership Rule while a legal challenge regarding the decision can move forward.
In 2004, Congress approved legislation directing the FCC to ensure that no owner of television stations reached more than 39% of the national audience, in an effort to ensure a diversity of perspectives in the press and to avoid monopolies or conglomerate dominance in the broadcast media. For more than two decades, the FCC's regulations respected this Congressional directive, but on October 1, 2026, the FCC released the final text of an order repealing the National Television Multiple Ownership Rule, disregarding the law and violating a clear Congressional mandate. In response to the rule's repeal, a coalition including the United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, Public Knowledge, The NewsGuild-Communications Workers of America (TNG-CWA), National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communications Workers of America, Local 51 (NABET-CWA Local 51), Future Film Coalition (FFC), Free Press, Reporters Without Borders (RSF USA), Writers Guild of America West (WGAW), and Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) filed a petition with the FCC, notifying the Commission of a forthcoming legal challenge to its decision to repeal the multi-ownership rule and asking the FCC to prevent the irreparable harm that would come from implementing the repeal before the legal challenge can be considered by a court. The coalition is represented in the matter by Democracy Forward, as well as long-time public interest lawyer Gigi Sohn.
"United Church of Christ Media Ministry Justice continues its work for media accountability because our members' witness for justice begins in their own communities. Without locally accountable news, they struggle to know what leaders are doing at home and across the country, and can't act on their care for their neighbors, all children, and the earth. The FCC's unlawful repeal of the bright-line national ownership cap not only hands more power to fewer conglomerates, but also to an agency that has shown a willingness to trade merger approvals for partisan political gain, in violation of the First Amendment," said Cheryl A. Leanza, policy advisor, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry.
"Consolidation puts decisions about local news in the hands of distant corporate headquarters. Communities lose independent coverage they rely on, including during emergencies. The FCC should keep the ownership cap in place while the courts review its repeal, before another round of mergers does lasting damage to local news," said John Bergmayer, Legal Director at Public Knowledge.
"Consolidation is the main reason we have lost tens of thousands of journalism jobs in the past two decades," said NewsGuild-CWA President Jon Schleuss. "Media workers and the public lose out when news organizations merge into conglomerates. The FCC's disregard for the law will inevitably lead to more job losses, less informed local communities and increased costs for every American."
"More media consolidation means fewer buyers, less bargaining power for industry workers, and fewer opportunities for local stories to reach audiences. It also puts irreplaceable local news archives and our shared cultural history at risk," said Jax Deluca, Executive Director of Future Film Coalition. "Once independent decision-makers, business relationships, local programming, and historical records are lost or discarded, there's no guarantee we can get these back. The FCC should not open the door to irreversible harm while the legality of its decision is still being challenged."
"The FCC simply cannot ignore the laws Congress makes just because the current agency head wants to. Chairman Carr serves only Donald Trump, not the people of this country. Carr threatens broadcasters when their coverage angers the administration, but tosses them bones like this repeal when the biggest broadcast conglomerates toe the line. Unlawful media consolidation makes for bad news in any era. It's especially troubling when an FCC chair ignores the First Amendment and hands out regulatory favors on political whims," said Matt Wood, Vice President of Policy and General Counsel at Free Press.
"Repealing the multi-ownership rule eliminates the only meaningful limit on TV ownership consolidation in the US, thus reducing media pluralism, eliminating choices for news consumers, and threatening jobs in an industry already reeling from widespread layoffs and closures. Furthermore, the FCC lacks the power to repeal a rule set by Congress. If allowed to move forward, this policy will benefit a small handful of powerful owners of media conglomerates, while harming journalists, local and independent TV stations and, not least of all, the American people," said Clayton Weimers, Executive Director at Reporters Without Borders, Inc. (RSF USA).
"Consolidation is occurring at every level, in every configuration and market within media, and writers from film to series to broadcast news have experienced the harms. The FCC's action to enable still more mergers among broadcast station owners threatens to give even greater control to media's gatekeepers," said the Writers Guild of America West and Writers Guild of America East in a joint statement.
The motion raises a series of issues with the FCC order repealing the multi-ownership rule. In addition to being directly contrary to law and based on faulty logic and errors in reasoning, the repeal of the multi-ownership rule would directly harm members of the organizations challenging the unlawful order. Historically, broadcast media consolidation has resulted in newsroom closures, layoffs, and other structural changes to broadcasters' operations that would be difficult or impossible to reverse. The harm that this would cause would be felt by journalists, communications professionals, scripted and non-fiction filmmakers, reporters, writers, and groups dedicated to the promotion and preservation of independent film, and by the unions that represent them. These workers would face reduced access to job opportunities, diminished working conditions, and severely limited bargaining power with their employers. In addition, the communities that benefit from robust local news operations will also suffer based on decreased coverage of local conditions.
"Localism, viewpoint diversity, and competition in the media are all crucial to a functioning democracy, and by repealing the National Television Multiple Ownership Rule, the FCC is paving the way for corporations to erode an informed public and our democracy through massive media consolidation deals," said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. "The need for civic and community engagement is essential, especially as First Amendment challenges and bullying have invaded the media landscape and threatened to prevent people from having choices in the media they consume. Democracy Forward is honored to represent this coalition to fight for the current limits regarding media consolidation."
Democracy Forward's legal team involved in this matter includes Simon C. Brewer, Bradley Girard, Kali Schellenberg, Jason Brovich, Paul R.Q. Wolfson, and Robin F. Thurston.
Read the petition here.
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Democracy Forward Foundation is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org.
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Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/unions-and-nonprofits-representing-journalists-writers-and-communications-professionals-petition-fcc-to-stay-order-that-would-allow-massive-media-consolidations/
[Category: Political]
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Unions and Nonprofits Representing Journalists, Writers, and Communications Professionals Petition FCC to Stay Order That Would Allow Massive Media Consolidations
FCC Repeals Rule Protecting Local Reporting From Harms of Corporate Consolidation
October 9, 2026
Washington, D.C. - A coalition of unions and nonprofit organizations representing journalists, writers, and other ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release: * * * Unions and Nonprofits Representing Journalists, Writers, and Communications Professionals Petition FCC to Stay Order That Would Allow Massive Media Consolidations FCC Repeals Rule Protecting Local Reporting From Harms of Corporate Consolidation October 9, 2026 Washington, D.C. - A coalition of unions and nonprofit organizations representing journalists, writers, and othercommunications professionals have moved the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to stay a recent FCC Order repealing its longstanding and Congressionally required National Television Multiple Ownership Rule while a legal challenge regarding the decision can move forward.
In 2004, Congress approved legislation directing the FCC to ensure that no owner of television stations reached more than 39% of the national audience, in an effort to ensure a diversity of perspectives in the press and to avoid monopolies or conglomerate dominance in the broadcast media. For more than two decades, the FCC's regulations respected this Congressional directive, but on October 1, 2026, the FCC released the final text of an order repealing the National Television Multiple Ownership Rule, disregarding the law and violating a clear Congressional mandate. In response to the rule's repeal, a coalition including the United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, Public Knowledge, The NewsGuild-Communications Workers of America (TNG-CWA), National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communications Workers of America, Local 51 (NABET-CWA Local 51), Future Film Coalition (FFC), Free Press, Reporters Without Borders (RSF USA), Writers Guild of America West (WGAW), and Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) filed a petition with the FCC, notifying the Commission of a forthcoming legal challenge to its decision to repeal the multi-ownership rule and asking the FCC to prevent the irreparable harm that would come from implementing the repeal before the legal challenge can be considered by a court. The coalition is represented in the matter by Democracy Forward, as well as long-time public interest lawyer Gigi Sohn.
"United Church of Christ Media Ministry Justice continues its work for media accountability because our members' witness for justice begins in their own communities. Without locally accountable news, they struggle to know what leaders are doing at home and across the country, and can't act on their care for their neighbors, all children, and the earth. The FCC's unlawful repeal of the bright-line national ownership cap not only hands more power to fewer conglomerates, but also to an agency that has shown a willingness to trade merger approvals for partisan political gain, in violation of the First Amendment," said Cheryl A. Leanza, policy advisor, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry.
"Consolidation puts decisions about local news in the hands of distant corporate headquarters. Communities lose independent coverage they rely on, including during emergencies. The FCC should keep the ownership cap in place while the courts review its repeal, before another round of mergers does lasting damage to local news," said John Bergmayer, Legal Director at Public Knowledge.
"Consolidation is the main reason we have lost tens of thousands of journalism jobs in the past two decades," said NewsGuild-CWA President Jon Schleuss. "Media workers and the public lose out when news organizations merge into conglomerates. The FCC's disregard for the law will inevitably lead to more job losses, less informed local communities and increased costs for every American."
"More media consolidation means fewer buyers, less bargaining power for industry workers, and fewer opportunities for local stories to reach audiences. It also puts irreplaceable local news archives and our shared cultural history at risk," said Jax Deluca, Executive Director of Future Film Coalition. "Once independent decision-makers, business relationships, local programming, and historical records are lost or discarded, there's no guarantee we can get these back. The FCC should not open the door to irreversible harm while the legality of its decision is still being challenged."
"The FCC simply cannot ignore the laws Congress makes just because the current agency head wants to. Chairman Carr serves only Donald Trump, not the people of this country. Carr threatens broadcasters when their coverage angers the administration, but tosses them bones like this repeal when the biggest broadcast conglomerates toe the line. Unlawful media consolidation makes for bad news in any era. It's especially troubling when an FCC chair ignores the First Amendment and hands out regulatory favors on political whims," said Matt Wood, Vice President of Policy and General Counsel at Free Press.
"Repealing the multi-ownership rule eliminates the only meaningful limit on TV ownership consolidation in the US, thus reducing media pluralism, eliminating choices for news consumers, and threatening jobs in an industry already reeling from widespread layoffs and closures. Furthermore, the FCC lacks the power to repeal a rule set by Congress. If allowed to move forward, this policy will benefit a small handful of powerful owners of media conglomerates, while harming journalists, local and independent TV stations and, not least of all, the American people," said Clayton Weimers, Executive Director at Reporters Without Borders, Inc. (RSF USA).
"Consolidation is occurring at every level, in every configuration and market within media, and writers from film to series to broadcast news have experienced the harms. The FCC's action to enable still more mergers among broadcast station owners threatens to give even greater control to media's gatekeepers," said the Writers Guild of America West and Writers Guild of America East in a joint statement.
The motion raises a series of issues with the FCC order repealing the multi-ownership rule. In addition to being directly contrary to law and based on faulty logic and errors in reasoning, the repeal of the multi-ownership rule would directly harm members of the organizations challenging the unlawful order. Historically, broadcast media consolidation has resulted in newsroom closures, layoffs, and other structural changes to broadcasters' operations that would be difficult or impossible to reverse. The harm that this would cause would be felt by journalists, communications professionals, scripted and non-fiction filmmakers, reporters, writers, and groups dedicated to the promotion and preservation of independent film, and by the unions that represent them. These workers would face reduced access to job opportunities, diminished working conditions, and severely limited bargaining power with their employers. In addition, the communities that benefit from robust local news operations will also suffer based on decreased coverage of local conditions.
"Localism, viewpoint diversity, and competition in the media are all crucial to a functioning democracy, and by repealing the National Television Multiple Ownership Rule, the FCC is paving the way for corporations to erode an informed public and our democracy through massive media consolidation deals," said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. "The need for civic and community engagement is essential, especially as First Amendment challenges and bullying have invaded the media landscape and threatened to prevent people from having choices in the media they consume. Democracy Forward is honored to represent this coalition to fight for the current limits regarding media consolidation."
Democracy Forward's legal team involved in this matter includes Simon C. Brewer, Bradley Girard, Kali Schellenberg, Jason Brovich, Paul R.Q. Wolfson, and Robin F. Thurston.
Read the petition here.
* * *
Democracy Forward Foundation is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/unions-and-nonprofits-representing-journalists-writers-and-communications-professionals-petition-fcc-to-stay-order-that-would-allow-massive-media-consolidations/
[Category: Political]
Save the Children: Gaza Ceasefire Exists in Name Only, Say More Than 100 Organizations
WESTPORT, Connecticut, Oct. 10 -- Save the Children, an organization that says it is giving children a healthy start in life, opportunity to learn and protection from harm, issued the following news release:
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Gaza Ceasefire Exists in Name Only, Say More Than 100 Organizations
GAZA, 9 October 2026 - One year after the Gaza ceasefire agreement was reached, more than 100 humanitarian, human rights, and other civil society organizations say the ceasefire exists in name only, with Israeli forces continuing to kill and injure Palestinians daily, and restrictions on aid, equipment and rebuilding ... Show Full Article WESTPORT, Connecticut, Oct. 10 -- Save the Children, an organization that says it is giving children a healthy start in life, opportunity to learn and protection from harm, issued the following news release: * * * Gaza Ceasefire Exists in Name Only, Say More Than 100 Organizations GAZA, 9 October 2026 - One year after the Gaza ceasefire agreement was reached, more than 100 humanitarian, human rights, and other civil society organizations say the ceasefire exists in name only, with Israeli forces continuing to kill and injure Palestinians daily, and restrictions on aid, equipment and rebuildingmaterials preventing families from recovering.
The killing and deprivation in Gaza must not be normalized under the cover of a ceasefire agreement, the organizations working on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory warned today.
Mohsen Abu Ramadan, Palestinian NGO Network Board Member, said:
"Palestinian organizations are responding to immense needs under Israeli occupation with destroyed offices, displaced staff, and shrinking budgets. Local and national organizations are first responders and will remain, but we need to be protected. Governments must act to end Israel's attacks and restrictions on our work and donors must provide direct, flexible funding to meet the needs."
Over the past year, Israeli strikes, shootings and military operations have killed more than 1,400 Palestinians, including at least 327 children. Families and rescue workers have recovered hundreds of bodies from the rubble, often with their bare hands, as Israeli authorities restrict the entry of machinery needed to reach them. Many more remain buried and unreachable.
The Israeli military has also moved the so-called Yellow Line further into Gaza, beyond the withdrawal line set out in the agreement, squeezing Palestinians into an increasingly small and overcrowded area.
Inger Ashing, Save the Children CEO, said:
"A ceasefire is meaningless if children are still being killed and families are still unable to rebuild their lives. Since the ceasefire was announced, nearly one child has been killed every day. Families remain trapped in a devastating cycle of loss and deprivation, unable to recover. Governments that backed this agreement must use their influence to stop the killing and ensure children can access food, healthcare, shelter and education. Gaza's children have a right to safety and a future. Governments have the power to help secure both, and they must use it."
Recent satellite imagery shows the scale of devastation caused by Israeli forces, with neighborhoods reduced to rubble, homes flattened and agricultural land razed. More than 80% of structures across Gaza have been damaged, including around two-thirds that have been destroyed.
As winter approaches, hundreds of thousands of families still live in tents, makeshift shelters or damaged homes and face a fourth winter exposed to cold, wind and flooding. Nearly one in four households in
Gaza is now headed by a woman, and these families are far more likely to be living in unsafe or inadequate shelter.
For many, there is simply nowhere safe to go. Families are sheltering in war-damaged buildings at risk of collapse. In September, 21 people, including 12 children, were killed when a damaged building collapsed in Gaza City.
Jan Egeland, Norwegian Refugee Council Secretary General, said:
"It is utterly shameful that a full year after the ceasefire was signed, so little has improved for Palestinians in Gaza. Families are still being forced to make impossible choices, between sheltering in damaged and dangerous buildings or living in tents facing unbearable temperatures. Israeli restrictions are still preventing the required equipment or materials, which are the only ways for communities to begin rebuilding their lives. As winter approaches, all governments must take concrete steps to ensure that the flow of aid increases without hindrance, so that Palestinians can finally begin the vast task of recovery and reconstruction."
These same restrictions are devastating essential services. Not one of Gaza's 36 hospitals is fully functioning, while medicines, equipment and fuel remain critically scarce. Newborn babies in incubators, patients requiring oxygen or intensive care, older people and people with disabilities and life-changing injuries are among those facing acute risks as specialized treatment, rehabilitation and assistive services remain severely limited.
More than 18,500 patients, including at least 4,000 children, still need medical evacuation, and over 1,000 have died waiting.
Meanwhile, 1.4 million people are facing crisis-level hunger or worse through the end of the year. At the same time, unsafe water and devastated sanitation systems continue to drive the spread of preventable disease.
A year on, the pattern is unmistakable. Families are still being killed. Children are still dying of preventable illness. Gaza is still littered with unexploded ordnance. Homes lie in rubble that cannot be cleared, and aid cannot reach the people who so desperately need it. This is not what a ceasefire was meant to deliver. It reflects the same conditions that twice led the UN Commission of Inquiry, in September 2025 and again in June 2026, to conclude that Israel has committed genocide. The international community's responsibility does not end with an agreement on paper.
Agnes Callmard, Secretary-General of Amnesty International, said:
"Accountability cannot be swept under the rubble. The recovery and future of Gaza cannot be separated from a framework grounded in international law, justice, and the rights of victims. The persistent failure to hold Israel accountable and press Israel to comply with the International Court of Justice's binding orders continues to fuel the atrocity crimes on a mass scale against Palestinians."
EDITOR'S NOTES
* Casualties: At least 327 children killed and 547 injured during ceasefire period, according to Gaza Ministry of Health; more than 5,000 injured overall (WHO - Global Health Cluster); more than 630 bodies recovered from rubble; many more remain buried or unreachable in areas under Israeli military control (OHCHR).
* Yellow Line: area under Israeli control expanded from ~53% to ~63% of Gaza over the ceasefire year (OCHA).
* Destruction: 82% of structures damaged, over two-thirds completely destroyed (UNRWA); 61 million tonnes of rubble, ~20x the amount generated by all wars worldwide over the past 18 years (The Guardian; UNDP).
* Destruction continuing under ceasefire: 9% increase in structures classified as completely destroyed, 11 October 2025 to 11 August 2026. (UNRWA; UNOSAT)
* Concerns raised regarding rubble removal risking destruction of evidence of international crimes; estimated 10,000+ people still buried beneath debris (OHCHR)
* Health: engine oil/spare parts shortages forcing hospitals to ration power; humanitarian vehicles and ambulances grounded; deaths from preventable/treatable conditions, including pregnancy-related complications. (OCHA)
* Women-headed households: nearly 1 in 4, roughly double the pre-war rate. (UN Women)
* Funding: <40% of the 2026 humanitarian response funded as of July. (OCHA)
* Water insecurity: >9 in 10 households. (OCHA)
Signatories:
1. A New Policy
2. Act Church of Sweden
3. Action For Humanity
4. ActionAid
5. Agricultural Development Association (PARC)
6. Alanqaa Association for Community Development
7. Al Najda Social Association
8. Al-dameer Association for Human Rights
9. Al-Foukhary Association For Rural Development
10. Al-Muntada Cultural Forum for Youth
11. Alrahma charitable society for rehabilitation
12. Alwaleed Charity Association
13. American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)
14. Amnesty International
15. Applied Research Institute-Jerusalem
16. Arab Agronomists Association
17. Arab Center for Agricultural Development (ACAD)
18. Basma Society for Culture and Arts.
19. Beesan Benevolent Association
20. Brilliant Tomorrow for Homes Sons Society
21. Bystanders No More
22. Caritas Internationalis
23. Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)
24. Catholic Caucus, Christians for Free Palestine
25. Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)
26. CESVI
27. Child Rights International Network (CRIN)
28. Children Not Numbers
29. Choose Love
30. Christian Aid
31. Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
32. Churches for Middle East Peace
33. CIDSE - International family of Catholic social justice organizations
34. CNCD-11.11.11
35. Community Development and Media Center - CDMC
36. DanChurchAid
37. Danish Muslim Aid
38. Danish Refugee Council
39. DEFENCE FOR CHILDREN INTERNATIONAL
40. Democracy and Workers' Rights Center in Palestine
41. Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN)
42. Doctors Against Genocide
43. Dr. Haider Abdel Shafi Center for Culture and Development
44. Etijahat Center
45. Fares Al-Arab for Development and Charity Works
46. Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR)
47. Friends Committee on National Legislation
48. Future Association for Development & Environment (FADE)
49. Gaza Urban & Peri-urban Agriculture Platform
50. General Palestinian Union For People With Disabilities
51. Give Palestine Association
52. Glia
53. Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (GCR2P)
54. Global Legal Action Network (GLAN)
55. Greenpeace International
56. HelpAge International
57. Human Rights and Democracy Media Center-SHAMS
58. Humanity and Inclusion (Handicap International)
59. International Commission to Support Palestinian Rights- ICSPR
60. International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF)
61. International Media Support
62. Islamic Relief
63. JAHALIN SOLIDARITY
64. Japan International Volunteer Center (JVC)
65. Karama for Culture and Arts
66. Kotof El-Khair Association
67. LABOR RESOURCES CENTER
68. Local Communities Organization
69. MA'AN Development Center
70. Medecins du Monde International Network
71. Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)
72. Medico international
73. Mennonite Central Committee
74. Nafs for Empowerment
75. National Justice and Peace Network
76. Nipponzan Myohoji - New England Peace Pagoda
77. Nonviolent Peaceforce
78. Norwegian Church Aid
79. Norwegian People's Aid
80. Norwegian Refugee Council
81. Olof Palme International Center
82. Oxfam
83. Palestine Association for Development and Justice
84. Palestine Avenir for Childhood Foundation
85. Palestinian Crescent Society for Relief and Development
86. Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO)
87. Palestinian Women Union Association
88. Pax Christi England and Wales
89. Pax Christi International
90. Peace Action New York State
91. Premiere Urgence Internationale
92. Priests Against Genocide USA
93. Refugees International
94. Right to Childhood
95. Saferworld
96. Save the Children
97. Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund
98. Society of Women Graduates
99. Taghreed Association for Culture and Development
100. Tearfund
101. Terre des Hommes Foundation
102. Terre des Hommes Germany
103. Terre des Hommes Italy
104. Terre des Hommes Netherlands
105. The Coalition for Accountability and Integrity - AMAN
106. The Danish House in Palestine (DHIP)
107. The Middle East Children's Alliance
108. The Palestinian Developmental Women Studies Association (PDWSA)
109. United Against Inhumanity (UAI)
110. United Nations Association - Denmark
111. War Child Alliance
112. Women's Program Center- Beach Camp
113. Youth Vision Society
114. Zeina women Charity ZWC
See FULL LIST here: Signatories: GAZA CEASEFIRE EXISTS IN NAME ONLY (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VZoqiLGrdIC_LdHCmAWypqvtYH6OVgC7YA_3arTU220/edit?tab=t.0)
Signatories will continue to be updated on a rolling basis
* * *
Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we've been advocating for the rights of children worldwide. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children - every day and in times of crisis - transforming the future we share. Our results, financial statements and charity ratings reaffirm that Save the Children is a charity you can trust. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.
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Original text here: https://www.savethechildren.org/us/about-us/media-and-news/2026-press-releases/gaza-ceasefire-exists-in-name-only
[Category: Sociological]
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Gaza Ceasefire Exists in Name Only, Say More Than 100 Organizations
GAZA, 9 October 2026 - One year after the Gaza ceasefire agreement was reached, more than 100 humanitarian, human rights, and other civil society organizations say the ceasefire exists in name only, with Israeli forces continuing to kill and injure Palestinians daily, and restrictions on aid, equipment and rebuilding ... Show Full Article WESTPORT, Connecticut, Oct. 10 -- Save the Children, an organization that says it is giving children a healthy start in life, opportunity to learn and protection from harm, issued the following news release: * * * Gaza Ceasefire Exists in Name Only, Say More Than 100 Organizations GAZA, 9 October 2026 - One year after the Gaza ceasefire agreement was reached, more than 100 humanitarian, human rights, and other civil society organizations say the ceasefire exists in name only, with Israeli forces continuing to kill and injure Palestinians daily, and restrictions on aid, equipment and rebuildingmaterials preventing families from recovering.
The killing and deprivation in Gaza must not be normalized under the cover of a ceasefire agreement, the organizations working on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory warned today.
Mohsen Abu Ramadan, Palestinian NGO Network Board Member, said:
"Palestinian organizations are responding to immense needs under Israeli occupation with destroyed offices, displaced staff, and shrinking budgets. Local and national organizations are first responders and will remain, but we need to be protected. Governments must act to end Israel's attacks and restrictions on our work and donors must provide direct, flexible funding to meet the needs."
Over the past year, Israeli strikes, shootings and military operations have killed more than 1,400 Palestinians, including at least 327 children. Families and rescue workers have recovered hundreds of bodies from the rubble, often with their bare hands, as Israeli authorities restrict the entry of machinery needed to reach them. Many more remain buried and unreachable.
The Israeli military has also moved the so-called Yellow Line further into Gaza, beyond the withdrawal line set out in the agreement, squeezing Palestinians into an increasingly small and overcrowded area.
Inger Ashing, Save the Children CEO, said:
"A ceasefire is meaningless if children are still being killed and families are still unable to rebuild their lives. Since the ceasefire was announced, nearly one child has been killed every day. Families remain trapped in a devastating cycle of loss and deprivation, unable to recover. Governments that backed this agreement must use their influence to stop the killing and ensure children can access food, healthcare, shelter and education. Gaza's children have a right to safety and a future. Governments have the power to help secure both, and they must use it."
Recent satellite imagery shows the scale of devastation caused by Israeli forces, with neighborhoods reduced to rubble, homes flattened and agricultural land razed. More than 80% of structures across Gaza have been damaged, including around two-thirds that have been destroyed.
As winter approaches, hundreds of thousands of families still live in tents, makeshift shelters or damaged homes and face a fourth winter exposed to cold, wind and flooding. Nearly one in four households in
Gaza is now headed by a woman, and these families are far more likely to be living in unsafe or inadequate shelter.
For many, there is simply nowhere safe to go. Families are sheltering in war-damaged buildings at risk of collapse. In September, 21 people, including 12 children, were killed when a damaged building collapsed in Gaza City.
Jan Egeland, Norwegian Refugee Council Secretary General, said:
"It is utterly shameful that a full year after the ceasefire was signed, so little has improved for Palestinians in Gaza. Families are still being forced to make impossible choices, between sheltering in damaged and dangerous buildings or living in tents facing unbearable temperatures. Israeli restrictions are still preventing the required equipment or materials, which are the only ways for communities to begin rebuilding their lives. As winter approaches, all governments must take concrete steps to ensure that the flow of aid increases without hindrance, so that Palestinians can finally begin the vast task of recovery and reconstruction."
These same restrictions are devastating essential services. Not one of Gaza's 36 hospitals is fully functioning, while medicines, equipment and fuel remain critically scarce. Newborn babies in incubators, patients requiring oxygen or intensive care, older people and people with disabilities and life-changing injuries are among those facing acute risks as specialized treatment, rehabilitation and assistive services remain severely limited.
More than 18,500 patients, including at least 4,000 children, still need medical evacuation, and over 1,000 have died waiting.
Meanwhile, 1.4 million people are facing crisis-level hunger or worse through the end of the year. At the same time, unsafe water and devastated sanitation systems continue to drive the spread of preventable disease.
A year on, the pattern is unmistakable. Families are still being killed. Children are still dying of preventable illness. Gaza is still littered with unexploded ordnance. Homes lie in rubble that cannot be cleared, and aid cannot reach the people who so desperately need it. This is not what a ceasefire was meant to deliver. It reflects the same conditions that twice led the UN Commission of Inquiry, in September 2025 and again in June 2026, to conclude that Israel has committed genocide. The international community's responsibility does not end with an agreement on paper.
Agnes Callmard, Secretary-General of Amnesty International, said:
"Accountability cannot be swept under the rubble. The recovery and future of Gaza cannot be separated from a framework grounded in international law, justice, and the rights of victims. The persistent failure to hold Israel accountable and press Israel to comply with the International Court of Justice's binding orders continues to fuel the atrocity crimes on a mass scale against Palestinians."
EDITOR'S NOTES
* Casualties: At least 327 children killed and 547 injured during ceasefire period, according to Gaza Ministry of Health; more than 5,000 injured overall (WHO - Global Health Cluster); more than 630 bodies recovered from rubble; many more remain buried or unreachable in areas under Israeli military control (OHCHR).
* Yellow Line: area under Israeli control expanded from ~53% to ~63% of Gaza over the ceasefire year (OCHA).
* Destruction: 82% of structures damaged, over two-thirds completely destroyed (UNRWA); 61 million tonnes of rubble, ~20x the amount generated by all wars worldwide over the past 18 years (The Guardian; UNDP).
* Destruction continuing under ceasefire: 9% increase in structures classified as completely destroyed, 11 October 2025 to 11 August 2026. (UNRWA; UNOSAT)
* Concerns raised regarding rubble removal risking destruction of evidence of international crimes; estimated 10,000+ people still buried beneath debris (OHCHR)
* Health: engine oil/spare parts shortages forcing hospitals to ration power; humanitarian vehicles and ambulances grounded; deaths from preventable/treatable conditions, including pregnancy-related complications. (OCHA)
* Women-headed households: nearly 1 in 4, roughly double the pre-war rate. (UN Women)
* Funding: <40% of the 2026 humanitarian response funded as of July. (OCHA)
* Water insecurity: >9 in 10 households. (OCHA)
Signatories:
1. A New Policy
2. Act Church of Sweden
3. Action For Humanity
4. ActionAid
5. Agricultural Development Association (PARC)
6. Alanqaa Association for Community Development
7. Al Najda Social Association
8. Al-dameer Association for Human Rights
9. Al-Foukhary Association For Rural Development
10. Al-Muntada Cultural Forum for Youth
11. Alrahma charitable society for rehabilitation
12. Alwaleed Charity Association
13. American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)
14. Amnesty International
15. Applied Research Institute-Jerusalem
16. Arab Agronomists Association
17. Arab Center for Agricultural Development (ACAD)
18. Basma Society for Culture and Arts.
19. Beesan Benevolent Association
20. Brilliant Tomorrow for Homes Sons Society
21. Bystanders No More
22. Caritas Internationalis
23. Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)
24. Catholic Caucus, Christians for Free Palestine
25. Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)
26. CESVI
27. Child Rights International Network (CRIN)
28. Children Not Numbers
29. Choose Love
30. Christian Aid
31. Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
32. Churches for Middle East Peace
33. CIDSE - International family of Catholic social justice organizations
34. CNCD-11.11.11
35. Community Development and Media Center - CDMC
36. DanChurchAid
37. Danish Muslim Aid
38. Danish Refugee Council
39. DEFENCE FOR CHILDREN INTERNATIONAL
40. Democracy and Workers' Rights Center in Palestine
41. Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN)
42. Doctors Against Genocide
43. Dr. Haider Abdel Shafi Center for Culture and Development
44. Etijahat Center
45. Fares Al-Arab for Development and Charity Works
46. Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR)
47. Friends Committee on National Legislation
48. Future Association for Development & Environment (FADE)
49. Gaza Urban & Peri-urban Agriculture Platform
50. General Palestinian Union For People With Disabilities
51. Give Palestine Association
52. Glia
53. Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (GCR2P)
54. Global Legal Action Network (GLAN)
55. Greenpeace International
56. HelpAge International
57. Human Rights and Democracy Media Center-SHAMS
58. Humanity and Inclusion (Handicap International)
59. International Commission to Support Palestinian Rights- ICSPR
60. International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF)
61. International Media Support
62. Islamic Relief
63. JAHALIN SOLIDARITY
64. Japan International Volunteer Center (JVC)
65. Karama for Culture and Arts
66. Kotof El-Khair Association
67. LABOR RESOURCES CENTER
68. Local Communities Organization
69. MA'AN Development Center
70. Medecins du Monde International Network
71. Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)
72. Medico international
73. Mennonite Central Committee
74. Nafs for Empowerment
75. National Justice and Peace Network
76. Nipponzan Myohoji - New England Peace Pagoda
77. Nonviolent Peaceforce
78. Norwegian Church Aid
79. Norwegian People's Aid
80. Norwegian Refugee Council
81. Olof Palme International Center
82. Oxfam
83. Palestine Association for Development and Justice
84. Palestine Avenir for Childhood Foundation
85. Palestinian Crescent Society for Relief and Development
86. Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO)
87. Palestinian Women Union Association
88. Pax Christi England and Wales
89. Pax Christi International
90. Peace Action New York State
91. Premiere Urgence Internationale
92. Priests Against Genocide USA
93. Refugees International
94. Right to Childhood
95. Saferworld
96. Save the Children
97. Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund
98. Society of Women Graduates
99. Taghreed Association for Culture and Development
100. Tearfund
101. Terre des Hommes Foundation
102. Terre des Hommes Germany
103. Terre des Hommes Italy
104. Terre des Hommes Netherlands
105. The Coalition for Accountability and Integrity - AMAN
106. The Danish House in Palestine (DHIP)
107. The Middle East Children's Alliance
108. The Palestinian Developmental Women Studies Association (PDWSA)
109. United Against Inhumanity (UAI)
110. United Nations Association - Denmark
111. War Child Alliance
112. Women's Program Center- Beach Camp
113. Youth Vision Society
114. Zeina women Charity ZWC
See FULL LIST here: Signatories: GAZA CEASEFIRE EXISTS IN NAME ONLY (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VZoqiLGrdIC_LdHCmAWypqvtYH6OVgC7YA_3arTU220/edit?tab=t.0)
Signatories will continue to be updated on a rolling basis
* * *
Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we've been advocating for the rights of children worldwide. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children - every day and in times of crisis - transforming the future we share. Our results, financial statements and charity ratings reaffirm that Save the Children is a charity you can trust. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.savethechildren.org/us/about-us/media-and-news/2026-press-releases/gaza-ceasefire-exists-in-name-only
[Category: Sociological]
Northwell Health: Northern Dutchess Hospital Awarded $224,000 New York State Grant to Plan Rural EMS Interfacility Transportation Program
NEW HYDE PARK, New York, Oct. 10 -- Northwell Health posted the following news release:
* * *
Northern Dutchess Hospital awarded $224,000 New York State grant to plan rural EMS interfacility transportation program
October 8th, 2026
The competitive state grant will fund planning for a new EMS program to help patients in rural communities move between healthcare facilities more efficiently when specialized care is needed
-
Northern Dutchess Hospital was recently awarded $224,000 through New York State's Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) initiative, part of the state's Rural Health Transformation ... Show Full Article NEW HYDE PARK, New York, Oct. 10 -- Northwell Health posted the following news release: * * * Northern Dutchess Hospital awarded $224,000 New York State grant to plan rural EMS interfacility transportation program October 8th, 2026 The competitive state grant will fund planning for a new EMS program to help patients in rural communities move between healthcare facilities more efficiently when specialized care is needed - Northern Dutchess Hospital was recently awarded $224,000 through New York State's Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) initiative, part of the state's Rural Health TransformationProgram.
The funding will support planning and development of a new emergency medical services (EMS) interfacility transportation program to address growing regional transportation needs. The initiative aims to improve access to timely care by helping patients move more efficiently between healthcare facilities when higher levels of treatment or specialized services are needed.
"This funding represents an important investment in the health of our community and will help us explore innovative ways to strengthen access to care throughout our region," says Andy Wilson, MD, president of Northern Dutchess Hospital. "As the need for EMS transportation services continues to grow, this planning effort will help us develop solutions that improve care coordination and ensure patients can access the right level of care when and where they need it."
The award is particularly significant given the highly competitive nature of the process. More than 90 applications were submitted for funding across the state, and each eligible county received only $500,000 in planning funds. Northern Dutchess Hospital, which serves residents in Dutchess, Columbia and Ulster Counties, received the allocation from Columbia County, underscoring the proposal's strength and the community needs it addresses.
"This achievement reflects the outstanding work of our team and the power of collaboration," said Dr. Wilson. "It's a tremendous accomplishment and a great example of what we can achieve when we identify a need in our community and work together to find innovative solutions."
How the grant will support rural EMS transportation planning
Through the project, Northern Dutchess Hospital will:
* Conduct planning activities and engage community and healthcare partners
* Assess regional transportation needs
* Develop a framework for a sustainable EMS interfacility transportation service
The initiative is expected to improve access to care, reduce transportation barriers and enhance coordination across the healthcare continuum for rural residents.
Potential for multi-year funding
The award represents the first phase of a potential multi-year funding opportunity. If the program meets requirements, Northern Dutchess Hospital may be eligible for four additional years of funding, with significantly increased levels tied to demonstrated community need.
"Transportation is a critical link in the healthcare continuum, particularly in rural communities where patients may need to travel longer distances to access specialized care. This funding will allow us to take a thoughtful, data-driven approach to understanding current gaps and developing a sustainable EMS interfacility transportation model that better serves patients, the clinical team and healthcare partners throughout our region," said Michelle Robertson, president of Northwell Health's Northern Market. "We are grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong collaboration that already exists across our community and create solutions that improve access to care."
* * *
About the Rural Community Health Integration Initiative
Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) is an initiative of New York State's Rural Health Transformation Program. The program supports regional and community partnerships that are designed to improve coordination across the healthcare continuum, enhance access to services and better address the health and social needs of rural New Yorkers.
New York's Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The federal program is designed to strengthen and modernize rural healthcare, expand access to care, support the rural health workforce and advance sustainable models of care for rural communities.
Northern Dutchess Hospital will begin project planning activities in the coming months and work closely with community stakeholders to evaluate transportation needs and develop a roadmap for implementation.
* * *
This initiative is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $212,058,207.80 in Budget Period 1, with 100% funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.northwell.edu/news/the-latest/northern-dutchess-hospital-nys-grant-for-rural-ems-interfacility-transportation-program
[Category: Health Care]
* * *
Northern Dutchess Hospital awarded $224,000 New York State grant to plan rural EMS interfacility transportation program
October 8th, 2026
The competitive state grant will fund planning for a new EMS program to help patients in rural communities move between healthcare facilities more efficiently when specialized care is needed
-
Northern Dutchess Hospital was recently awarded $224,000 through New York State's Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) initiative, part of the state's Rural Health Transformation ... Show Full Article NEW HYDE PARK, New York, Oct. 10 -- Northwell Health posted the following news release: * * * Northern Dutchess Hospital awarded $224,000 New York State grant to plan rural EMS interfacility transportation program October 8th, 2026 The competitive state grant will fund planning for a new EMS program to help patients in rural communities move between healthcare facilities more efficiently when specialized care is needed - Northern Dutchess Hospital was recently awarded $224,000 through New York State's Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) initiative, part of the state's Rural Health TransformationProgram.
The funding will support planning and development of a new emergency medical services (EMS) interfacility transportation program to address growing regional transportation needs. The initiative aims to improve access to timely care by helping patients move more efficiently between healthcare facilities when higher levels of treatment or specialized services are needed.
"This funding represents an important investment in the health of our community and will help us explore innovative ways to strengthen access to care throughout our region," says Andy Wilson, MD, president of Northern Dutchess Hospital. "As the need for EMS transportation services continues to grow, this planning effort will help us develop solutions that improve care coordination and ensure patients can access the right level of care when and where they need it."
The award is particularly significant given the highly competitive nature of the process. More than 90 applications were submitted for funding across the state, and each eligible county received only $500,000 in planning funds. Northern Dutchess Hospital, which serves residents in Dutchess, Columbia and Ulster Counties, received the allocation from Columbia County, underscoring the proposal's strength and the community needs it addresses.
"This achievement reflects the outstanding work of our team and the power of collaboration," said Dr. Wilson. "It's a tremendous accomplishment and a great example of what we can achieve when we identify a need in our community and work together to find innovative solutions."
How the grant will support rural EMS transportation planning
Through the project, Northern Dutchess Hospital will:
* Conduct planning activities and engage community and healthcare partners
* Assess regional transportation needs
* Develop a framework for a sustainable EMS interfacility transportation service
The initiative is expected to improve access to care, reduce transportation barriers and enhance coordination across the healthcare continuum for rural residents.
Potential for multi-year funding
The award represents the first phase of a potential multi-year funding opportunity. If the program meets requirements, Northern Dutchess Hospital may be eligible for four additional years of funding, with significantly increased levels tied to demonstrated community need.
"Transportation is a critical link in the healthcare continuum, particularly in rural communities where patients may need to travel longer distances to access specialized care. This funding will allow us to take a thoughtful, data-driven approach to understanding current gaps and developing a sustainable EMS interfacility transportation model that better serves patients, the clinical team and healthcare partners throughout our region," said Michelle Robertson, president of Northwell Health's Northern Market. "We are grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong collaboration that already exists across our community and create solutions that improve access to care."
* * *
About the Rural Community Health Integration Initiative
Rural Community Health Integration (RCHI) is an initiative of New York State's Rural Health Transformation Program. The program supports regional and community partnerships that are designed to improve coordination across the healthcare continuum, enhance access to services and better address the health and social needs of rural New Yorkers.
New York's Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The federal program is designed to strengthen and modernize rural healthcare, expand access to care, support the rural health workforce and advance sustainable models of care for rural communities.
Northern Dutchess Hospital will begin project planning activities in the coming months and work closely with community stakeholders to evaluate transportation needs and develop a roadmap for implementation.
* * *
This initiative is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $212,058,207.80 in Budget Period 1, with 100% funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.northwell.edu/news/the-latest/northern-dutchess-hospital-nys-grant-for-rural-ems-interfacility-transportation-program
[Category: Health Care]
Menopause Society: Premature Menopause Associated With Higher Insulin Levels and Greater CVD Risk
PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release:
* * *
Premature Menopause Associated With Higher Insulin Levels and Greater CVD Risk
October 9, 2026
New study suggests insulin resistance may partially explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease
-
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Premature menopause is associated with an increased ... Show Full Article PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release: * * * Premature Menopause Associated With Higher Insulin Levels and Greater CVD Risk October 9, 2026 New study suggests insulin resistance may partially explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease - CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Premature menopause is associated with an increasedrisk of several long-term health problems due to estrogen deficiency. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of those health risks. However, the underlying cardiometabolic causes are unclear. A new study suggests a possible connection with insulin levels. Results of the study will be presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in San Diego, October 20-24, 2026.
Premature menopause is defined as menopause that occurs before the age of 40 years. Only about 1% of women experience it. Women who experience premature menopause have a longer duration of postmenopause life and have been reported to have higher risks of several adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
A new study involving more than 4,700 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 64 years sought to examine cardiometabolic factors that may help explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease, with a particular focus on insulin resistance.
During a mean follow-up of 21.4 years, researchers documented 1,570 cardiovascular events among the participants. Compared with menopause that occurs at or after age 45 years, premature menopause was found to be associated with greater risks of cardiovascular disease and incident coronary heart disease but not stroke or heart failure. Early menopause, which occurs between the age of 40 and 44 years, was not associated with greater risks of any of these heart health problems. Similarly, premature menopause was associated with higher insulin levels--9.3% higher--but there was no difference in fasting glucose levels.
"Our findings suggest that insulin resistance may be one important pathway linking premature menopause with increased cardiovascular disease risk, highlighting the importance of cardiometabolic health in women who experience menopause before age 40," says Dr. Zailing Xing, first author of the study.
Additional details of the study will be discussed as part of the presentation "Premature menopause and cardiovascular disease risk in the Aric Study: mediation by insulin resistance."
"Women who experience menopause before age 40 are known to face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, but the reasons for that increased risk are not fully understood," says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. "This study suggests that insulin resistance may be one of the biological pathways involved. A better understanding of these mechanisms may help identify opportunities for earlier intervention and more personalized strategies to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk in women with premature menopause."
* * *
The Menopause Society is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond. As the leading authority on menopause since 1989, the nonprofit, multidisciplinary organization serves as the independent, evidence-based resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and the public and leads the conversation about improving women's health and healthcare experiences. To learn more, visit menopause.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://menopause.org/press-releases/premature-menopause-associated-with-higher-insulin-levels-and-greater-cvd-risk
[Category: Medical]
* * *
Premature Menopause Associated With Higher Insulin Levels and Greater CVD Risk
October 9, 2026
New study suggests insulin resistance may partially explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease
-
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Premature menopause is associated with an increased ... Show Full Article PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release: * * * Premature Menopause Associated With Higher Insulin Levels and Greater CVD Risk October 9, 2026 New study suggests insulin resistance may partially explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease - CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Premature menopause is associated with an increasedrisk of several long-term health problems due to estrogen deficiency. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of those health risks. However, the underlying cardiometabolic causes are unclear. A new study suggests a possible connection with insulin levels. Results of the study will be presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in San Diego, October 20-24, 2026.
Premature menopause is defined as menopause that occurs before the age of 40 years. Only about 1% of women experience it. Women who experience premature menopause have a longer duration of postmenopause life and have been reported to have higher risks of several adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
A new study involving more than 4,700 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 64 years sought to examine cardiometabolic factors that may help explain the association between premature menopause and cardiovascular disease, with a particular focus on insulin resistance.
During a mean follow-up of 21.4 years, researchers documented 1,570 cardiovascular events among the participants. Compared with menopause that occurs at or after age 45 years, premature menopause was found to be associated with greater risks of cardiovascular disease and incident coronary heart disease but not stroke or heart failure. Early menopause, which occurs between the age of 40 and 44 years, was not associated with greater risks of any of these heart health problems. Similarly, premature menopause was associated with higher insulin levels--9.3% higher--but there was no difference in fasting glucose levels.
"Our findings suggest that insulin resistance may be one important pathway linking premature menopause with increased cardiovascular disease risk, highlighting the importance of cardiometabolic health in women who experience menopause before age 40," says Dr. Zailing Xing, first author of the study.
Additional details of the study will be discussed as part of the presentation "Premature menopause and cardiovascular disease risk in the Aric Study: mediation by insulin resistance."
"Women who experience menopause before age 40 are known to face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, but the reasons for that increased risk are not fully understood," says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. "This study suggests that insulin resistance may be one of the biological pathways involved. A better understanding of these mechanisms may help identify opportunities for earlier intervention and more personalized strategies to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk in women with premature menopause."
* * *
The Menopause Society is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond. As the leading authority on menopause since 1989, the nonprofit, multidisciplinary organization serves as the independent, evidence-based resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and the public and leads the conversation about improving women's health and healthcare experiences. To learn more, visit menopause.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://menopause.org/press-releases/premature-menopause-associated-with-higher-insulin-levels-and-greater-cvd-risk
[Category: Medical]
Menopause Society: Hormone Therapy May Increase Weight Loss Effectiveness of GLP-1s
PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release:
* * *
Hormone Therapy May Increase Weight Loss Effectiveness of GLP-1s
October 8, 2026
New study demonstrates that use of hormones can lead to significantly greater and sustained weight loss, but results differ by type of GLP-1
-
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The dramatic success stories of GLP-1 weight loss medications ... Show Full Article PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release: * * * Hormone Therapy May Increase Weight Loss Effectiveness of GLP-1s October 8, 2026 New study demonstrates that use of hormones can lead to significantly greater and sustained weight loss, but results differ by type of GLP-1 - CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The dramatic success stories of GLP-1 weight loss medicationsare dominating the airwaves. Midlife women, who commonly experience weight gain resulting from menopause, have been especially drawn to the drugs. A new study suggests that hormone therapy is associated with greater and sustained weight loss with some GLP-1s. Results of the study will be presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in San Diego October 20-24, 2026.
Around 20% (one in five) of women aged 50 to 64 report current or past use of a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist)-based obesity medication, making this age bracket the highest represented of any demographic in the U.S. among GLP-1 users. Weight gain during midlife is a common concern among women. Although these gains are largely driven by aging, menopause-related factors can contribute to fat accumulation and redistribution.
GLP-1 medications have been proven effective for weight loss, although treatment response may vary by sex and reproductive stage. Female sex and a younger age have been generally associated with greater weight loss response. Small retrospective observational cohort studies in postmenopausal women have suggested that the use of hormone therapy is associated with a greater weight loss response to semaglutide (SEM; GLP-1 RA) and tirzepatide (TZP; a dual GLP-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide agonist).
A new study, however, involves the first known large real-world cohort of midlife women treated for overweight or obesity. It aimed to determine whether weight loss with SEM or TZP differs between midlife women using hormone therapy and those not using hormones. This retrospective observational cohort study included nearly 2,400 women taking SEM and nearly 1,500 women taking a TZP who were >45 years with a BMI>27 kg/m2.
Based on the results, the researchers concluded that hormone therapy is associated with significantly greater and sustained weight loss with SEM. Although the women taking TZP initially showed greater weight loss if they were also using hormone therapy, the end results did not reach statistical significance.
"We are seeing a consistent signal. Our earlier, smaller studies showed an association between hormone therapy use and greater weight loss in postmenopausal women, and the fact that we see the same signal in a larger, independent cohort should not be overlooked. It is also biologically plausible, given preclinical data suggesting a potential synergistic effect between estrogen and GLP-1 signaling. Interestingly, the effect was stronger with semaglutide than with tirzepatide, which deserves further study and may point to an interaction specific to GLP-1 signaling. That said, it is too early to draw firm conclusions. These findings need to be confirmed in adequately designed prospective trials, and it's important to remember that weight loss is not an indication for menopause hormone therapy," says Dr. Regina Castaneda, lead study author from Mayo Clinic Florida.
Additional details of the study will be discussed as part of the presentation entitled "Menopause Hormone Therapy and Weight Loss Response to GLP-1-Based Therapies in Midlife Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study."
"Weight gain and changes in body composition are among the most common and frustrating concerns women experience during the menopause transition," says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. "These findings suggest that hormone therapy may influence how some women respond to GLP-1-based weight loss medications. Although more research is needed, this study highlights the importance of considering menopause-specific factors when developing personalized approaches to weight management for midlife women."
* * *
The Menopause Society is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond. As the leading authority on menopause since 1989, the nonprofit, multidisciplinary organization serves as the independent, evidence-based resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and the public and leads the conversation about improving women's health and healthcare experiences. To learn more, visit menopause.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://menopause.org/press-releases/hormone-therapy-may-increase-weight-loss-effectiveness-of-glp-1s
[Category: Medical]
* * *
Hormone Therapy May Increase Weight Loss Effectiveness of GLP-1s
October 8, 2026
New study demonstrates that use of hormones can lead to significantly greater and sustained weight loss, but results differ by type of GLP-1
-
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The dramatic success stories of GLP-1 weight loss medications ... Show Full Article PEPPER PIKE, Ohio, Oct. 10 (TNSxrep) -- The Menopause Society, an organization that is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond, issued the following news release: * * * Hormone Therapy May Increase Weight Loss Effectiveness of GLP-1s October 8, 2026 New study demonstrates that use of hormones can lead to significantly greater and sustained weight loss, but results differ by type of GLP-1 - CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The dramatic success stories of GLP-1 weight loss medicationsare dominating the airwaves. Midlife women, who commonly experience weight gain resulting from menopause, have been especially drawn to the drugs. A new study suggests that hormone therapy is associated with greater and sustained weight loss with some GLP-1s. Results of the study will be presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in San Diego October 20-24, 2026.
Around 20% (one in five) of women aged 50 to 64 report current or past use of a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist)-based obesity medication, making this age bracket the highest represented of any demographic in the U.S. among GLP-1 users. Weight gain during midlife is a common concern among women. Although these gains are largely driven by aging, menopause-related factors can contribute to fat accumulation and redistribution.
GLP-1 medications have been proven effective for weight loss, although treatment response may vary by sex and reproductive stage. Female sex and a younger age have been generally associated with greater weight loss response. Small retrospective observational cohort studies in postmenopausal women have suggested that the use of hormone therapy is associated with a greater weight loss response to semaglutide (SEM; GLP-1 RA) and tirzepatide (TZP; a dual GLP-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide agonist).
A new study, however, involves the first known large real-world cohort of midlife women treated for overweight or obesity. It aimed to determine whether weight loss with SEM or TZP differs between midlife women using hormone therapy and those not using hormones. This retrospective observational cohort study included nearly 2,400 women taking SEM and nearly 1,500 women taking a TZP who were >45 years with a BMI>27 kg/m2.
Based on the results, the researchers concluded that hormone therapy is associated with significantly greater and sustained weight loss with SEM. Although the women taking TZP initially showed greater weight loss if they were also using hormone therapy, the end results did not reach statistical significance.
"We are seeing a consistent signal. Our earlier, smaller studies showed an association between hormone therapy use and greater weight loss in postmenopausal women, and the fact that we see the same signal in a larger, independent cohort should not be overlooked. It is also biologically plausible, given preclinical data suggesting a potential synergistic effect between estrogen and GLP-1 signaling. Interestingly, the effect was stronger with semaglutide than with tirzepatide, which deserves further study and may point to an interaction specific to GLP-1 signaling. That said, it is too early to draw firm conclusions. These findings need to be confirmed in adequately designed prospective trials, and it's important to remember that weight loss is not an indication for menopause hormone therapy," says Dr. Regina Castaneda, lead study author from Mayo Clinic Florida.
Additional details of the study will be discussed as part of the presentation entitled "Menopause Hormone Therapy and Weight Loss Response to GLP-1-Based Therapies in Midlife Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study."
"Weight gain and changes in body composition are among the most common and frustrating concerns women experience during the menopause transition," says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. "These findings suggest that hormone therapy may influence how some women respond to GLP-1-based weight loss medications. Although more research is needed, this study highlights the importance of considering menopause-specific factors when developing personalized approaches to weight management for midlife women."
* * *
The Menopause Society is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals and providing them with the tools and resources to improve the health of women during the menopause transition and beyond. As the leading authority on menopause since 1989, the nonprofit, multidisciplinary organization serves as the independent, evidence-based resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and the public and leads the conversation about improving women's health and healthcare experiences. To learn more, visit menopause.org.
* * *
Original text here: https://menopause.org/press-releases/hormone-therapy-may-increase-weight-loss-effectiveness-of-glp-1s
[Category: Medical]
Democracy Forward: Federal Court Blocks Trump-Vance Policy Denying Detained Immigrants Access to Legal Protections
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, issued the following news release:
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Federal Court Blocks Trump-Vance Policy Denying Detained Immigrants Access to Legal Protections
Ruling Restores Critical Pathways to Immigration Relief for Survivors of Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Abused Children, and others
October 8, 2026
Washington, D.C. -- In a major victory for detained immigrants seeking lawful immigration status and humanitarian protections, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, issued the following news release: * * * Federal Court Blocks Trump-Vance Policy Denying Detained Immigrants Access to Legal Protections Ruling Restores Critical Pathways to Immigration Relief for Survivors of Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Abused Children, and others October 8, 2026 Washington, D.C. -- In a major victory for detained immigrants seeking lawful immigration status and humanitarian protections,a federal court has blocked a Trump-Vance administration policy that prevented people in immigration detention from completing required steps in their immigration applications, putting them at risk of deportation, family separation, and return to dangerous conditions.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted a stay of the administration's December 2025 policy that stopped the collection of biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs, from detained immigrants with pending applications before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The ruling restores the previous biometric collection process while litigation continues.
The decision comes in J.Z. v. Department of Homeland Security, a lawsuit brought by detained immigrants represented by Democracy Forward, the National Immigration Project, and the National Immigrant Justice Center.
While anyone seeking benefits from USCIS is required to submit biometrics, under the changed policy, DHS stopped collecting biometrics for detained people seeking USCIS benefits. The policy effectively blocked detained people's access to legal protections established by Congress, including those for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, abused and abandoned children, and people seeking to reunite with their families.
The court found that plaintiffs were likely to show a serious risk of irreparable harm, including prolonged detention, deportation, and family separation.
Plaintiffs and co-counsel issued the following joint statement:
"The Trump-Vance administration created an impossible trap: require people to provide biometrics to seek legal protections, refuse to collect them, and then deny their applications for failing to comply. This cruel policy put survivors of trafficking and abuse, vulnerable children, and families at risk of deportation and separation -- not because they were ineligible for protection, but because the government blocked their ability to seek it.
"This decision is a powerful victory for the rule of law and for people whose lives and futures depend on the protections Congress established. The government cannot create impossible barriers to legal relief and then punish people for failing to overcome them. No one should be forced to choose between deportation to danger and a legal process designed to fail. We will continue fighting to ensure that everyone has a meaningful opportunity to seek the protections available to them under the law."
The court's order stays the policy and its implementation while litigation proceeds and requires the administration to report on its compliance by October 21, 2026.
The case is J.Z. et al. v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security et al. The legal team includes Sean Ouellette, Anne Swift, Jennie Kneedler, Paul Wolfson, and Elena Goldstein of Democracy Forward; Michelle Mendez of the National Immigration Project; and Mary Georgevich, Keren Zwick, Richard Caldarone, Gerardo Romo, and Nicole May of the National Immigrant Justice Center.
Read the court's decision here.
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Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/federal-court-blocks-trump-vance-policy-denying-detained-immigrants-access-to-legal-protections/
[Category: Political]
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Federal Court Blocks Trump-Vance Policy Denying Detained Immigrants Access to Legal Protections
Ruling Restores Critical Pathways to Immigration Relief for Survivors of Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Abused Children, and others
October 8, 2026
Washington, D.C. -- In a major victory for detained immigrants seeking lawful immigration status and humanitarian protections, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, issued the following news release: * * * Federal Court Blocks Trump-Vance Policy Denying Detained Immigrants Access to Legal Protections Ruling Restores Critical Pathways to Immigration Relief for Survivors of Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Abused Children, and others October 8, 2026 Washington, D.C. -- In a major victory for detained immigrants seeking lawful immigration status and humanitarian protections,a federal court has blocked a Trump-Vance administration policy that prevented people in immigration detention from completing required steps in their immigration applications, putting them at risk of deportation, family separation, and return to dangerous conditions.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted a stay of the administration's December 2025 policy that stopped the collection of biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs, from detained immigrants with pending applications before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The ruling restores the previous biometric collection process while litigation continues.
The decision comes in J.Z. v. Department of Homeland Security, a lawsuit brought by detained immigrants represented by Democracy Forward, the National Immigration Project, and the National Immigrant Justice Center.
While anyone seeking benefits from USCIS is required to submit biometrics, under the changed policy, DHS stopped collecting biometrics for detained people seeking USCIS benefits. The policy effectively blocked detained people's access to legal protections established by Congress, including those for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, abused and abandoned children, and people seeking to reunite with their families.
The court found that plaintiffs were likely to show a serious risk of irreparable harm, including prolonged detention, deportation, and family separation.
Plaintiffs and co-counsel issued the following joint statement:
"The Trump-Vance administration created an impossible trap: require people to provide biometrics to seek legal protections, refuse to collect them, and then deny their applications for failing to comply. This cruel policy put survivors of trafficking and abuse, vulnerable children, and families at risk of deportation and separation -- not because they were ineligible for protection, but because the government blocked their ability to seek it.
"This decision is a powerful victory for the rule of law and for people whose lives and futures depend on the protections Congress established. The government cannot create impossible barriers to legal relief and then punish people for failing to overcome them. No one should be forced to choose between deportation to danger and a legal process designed to fail. We will continue fighting to ensure that everyone has a meaningful opportunity to seek the protections available to them under the law."
The court's order stays the policy and its implementation while litigation proceeds and requires the administration to report on its compliance by October 21, 2026.
The case is J.Z. et al. v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security et al. The legal team includes Sean Ouellette, Anne Swift, Jennie Kneedler, Paul Wolfson, and Elena Goldstein of Democracy Forward; Michelle Mendez of the National Immigration Project; and Mary Georgevich, Keren Zwick, Richard Caldarone, Gerardo Romo, and Nicole May of the National Immigrant Justice Center.
Read the court's decision here.
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Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/federal-court-blocks-trump-vance-policy-denying-detained-immigrants-access-to-legal-protections/
[Category: Political]
Coalition Challenges Unlawful Use of Public Money for Trump Political Ads
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release:
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Coalition Challenges Unlawful Use of Public Money for Trump Political Ads
Blatant Violation of Decades of Law Should Be Stopped, Watchdog Group, Unions and Candidate Say
October 8, 2026
New York - A coalition including a nationwide watchdog group, a public employee union and a candidate for State House in Alabama has filed a legal challenge to the Trump-Vance administration's ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release: * * * Coalition Challenges Unlawful Use of Public Money for Trump Political Ads Blatant Violation of Decades of Law Should Be Stopped, Watchdog Group, Unions and Candidate Say October 8, 2026 New York - A coalition including a nationwide watchdog group, a public employee union and a candidate for State House in Alabama has filed a legal challenge to the Trump-Vance administration'sunlawful use of public funds for partisan political ads.
In a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York, government watchdog group Common Cause, Service Employees International Union Local 32bj (SEIU 32bj) and its Empire State PAC, and candidate for Alabama State House Robert Hunter are uniting to ask the court to stop the government from using taxpayer funds dedicated to other purposes to pay for the unlawful development, creation, or airing of President Trump's political ads. The coalition is represented by Democracy Forward, Campaign Legal Center Action, and Public Integrity Project Action, Inc. in the matter.
"Taxpayer dollars belong to the American people, not to any president's personal PR machine," said Common Cause President & CEO Virginia Kase Solomon. "The widespread, cross-partisan outcry against these ads shows that Americans across the political spectrum don't want their hard-earned tax dollars wasted on self-promoting propaganda while they're struggling to afford gas and groceries. We are taking this administration to court to stop this illegal, reckless spending, enforce accountability, and ensure that no president can hijack your tax dollars for their own ego or political agenda."
"The Trump administration's use of taxpayer dollars to fund political ads reeks of corruption," said Manny Pastreich, President of 32BJ SEIU. "As a union representing nearly 200,000 working people who have been hurt by this administration's anti-immigrant and anti-worker policies, we plan to use every tool at our disposal to fight back against attempts to undermine our democracy. This includes joining this lawsuit, and organizing and mobilizing to get out the vote this November."
"I am deeply concerned and disgusted by the decision to use public resources for partisan political purposes while Alabama families are facing serious uncertainty about their ability to put food on the table. As billions of federal dollars in SNAP funding are being pulled away from Alabama communities, directly threatening the ability of families in my district to afford basic necessities, the President of the United States has chosen to take a personal political interest in my race and use taxpayer-funded resources to advocate for my opponent. That is unacceptable," said Robert Hunter, candidate for Alabama House District 28. "Our tax dollars should be used to serve the people -- not to influence elections, attack political opponents, or advance the interests of one candidate over another. Alabama families should never have to compete with political priorities for the resources they need to feed their children. A political decision was made, and it was clearly not made in the best interest of the people I represent. As a candidate and public servant, I have an obligation to stand up for my constituents and protect their interests. That means demanding accountability and taking every appropriate legal and political step necessary to challenge what appears to be an improper and potentially illegal use of public funds. The people of this district deserve better. They deserve representatives who will fight for their families, their communities, and their tax dollars -- not politicians who put partisan political interests ahead of the basic needs of their constituents. I will continue to fight to ensure that the resources meant for Alabama families are used to serve Alabama."
According to reporting, on August 7, President Trump met with Republican strategists who asked the president to use some of the $400 million in his super PAC to support Republicans in tight midterm elections. Weeks later, in late September, "several ads glorifying [President] Trump began appearing across the country." The ads were not, however, funded by President Trump's super PAC. Instead, the ads were paid for by taxpayers, after President Trump told Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Vought "to come up with the money" for the president's advertisements "from within the government." Though the president is now claiming that future ads will be paid for with non-governmental funds, the administration continues to air Trump's partisan propaganda that is still being paid for by U.S. taxpayer funds. The use of public money for political purposes remains a violation of the law that the court must address.
One of the ads run by the administration was identical to an ad that President Trump ran as a campaign ad in 2024. The only difference is that instead of a disclaimer that the ad was funded by the campaign, the ad's disclaimer reads: "Paid for by the United States Government."
Using taxpayer funds to pay for political ads disregards decades of an unequivocal Congressional mandate that public money not be used to benefit candidates for public office or political causes. In annual appropriations acts since 1952, Congress has included a provision that prohibits the use of appropriated funds for unauthorized "publicity or propaganda," and for more than 65 years, the Government Accountability Office has interpreted this prohibition to cover at least two types of publications: those that are "self-aggrandizing" or "purely partisan in nature." Additionally, for nearly 90 years, the Hatch Act has prohibited federal employees from using their positions to engage in political activities.
"American taxpayers shouldn't have to foot the bill for the president's politics. The ads are contrary to decades of clear Congressional requirements that prevent partisan ads being funded through taxpayer dollars," said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. "We are honored to work with our clients and eager for a court to intervene to stop these ads."
"There is no legal justification for using taxpayer dollars to bankroll campaign propaganda," said Campaign Legal Center Action Senior Vice President Bruce V. Spiva. "President Trump and his administration's political advertising scheme is a blatant misuse of taxpayer dollars and a clear violation of the law. It is yet another example of this administration attempting to bypass our constitutionally mandated separation of powers to influence voters while elections are already well underway. We are taking action to protect every American voter, uphold the rule of law and ensure that taxpayer resources are not misused for partisan political gain."
"Spending taxpayer dollars on partisan political ads is as corrupt as it gets," said Brendan Ballou, founder of the Public Integrity Project. "Even the President's allies are admitting this is wrong. It's also illegal, and we're going to stop it."
The complaint names a series of defendants, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), its current leader Secretary Markwayne Mullin; as well as the Office of Management and Budget and its director Russ Vought; and the Executive Office of the President and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The agencies and leaders named in the suit each participated in facilitating the illegal use of public money to air the ads.
The case is Common Cause et al. v. Department of Homeland Security et al. and Democracy Forward's legal team involved in this case includes Bradley Girard, Mike Gaffney, Sean Ouellette, Anashua Dutta, Paul Wolfson, and Robin Thurston.
Read the complaint filed here.
In addition to this federal lawsuit, Campaign Legal Center filed a Hatch Act complaint with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), the agency responsible for enforcing the Hatch Act. Democracy Forward has also called on OSC and DHS's Inspector General to investigate the use of taxpayer funds for a potential Hatch Act violation.
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Democracy Forward Foundation is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org.
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Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/coalition-challenges-unlawful-use-of-public-money-for-trump-political-ads/
[Category: Political]
* * *
Coalition Challenges Unlawful Use of Public Money for Trump Political Ads
Blatant Violation of Decades of Law Should Be Stopped, Watchdog Group, Unions and Candidate Say
October 8, 2026
New York - A coalition including a nationwide watchdog group, a public employee union and a candidate for State House in Alabama has filed a legal challenge to the Trump-Vance administration's ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Democracy Forward, an organization that says it advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education and regulatory engagement, posted the following news release: * * * Coalition Challenges Unlawful Use of Public Money for Trump Political Ads Blatant Violation of Decades of Law Should Be Stopped, Watchdog Group, Unions and Candidate Say October 8, 2026 New York - A coalition including a nationwide watchdog group, a public employee union and a candidate for State House in Alabama has filed a legal challenge to the Trump-Vance administration'sunlawful use of public funds for partisan political ads.
In a complaint filed in the Southern District of New York, government watchdog group Common Cause, Service Employees International Union Local 32bj (SEIU 32bj) and its Empire State PAC, and candidate for Alabama State House Robert Hunter are uniting to ask the court to stop the government from using taxpayer funds dedicated to other purposes to pay for the unlawful development, creation, or airing of President Trump's political ads. The coalition is represented by Democracy Forward, Campaign Legal Center Action, and Public Integrity Project Action, Inc. in the matter.
"Taxpayer dollars belong to the American people, not to any president's personal PR machine," said Common Cause President & CEO Virginia Kase Solomon. "The widespread, cross-partisan outcry against these ads shows that Americans across the political spectrum don't want their hard-earned tax dollars wasted on self-promoting propaganda while they're struggling to afford gas and groceries. We are taking this administration to court to stop this illegal, reckless spending, enforce accountability, and ensure that no president can hijack your tax dollars for their own ego or political agenda."
"The Trump administration's use of taxpayer dollars to fund political ads reeks of corruption," said Manny Pastreich, President of 32BJ SEIU. "As a union representing nearly 200,000 working people who have been hurt by this administration's anti-immigrant and anti-worker policies, we plan to use every tool at our disposal to fight back against attempts to undermine our democracy. This includes joining this lawsuit, and organizing and mobilizing to get out the vote this November."
"I am deeply concerned and disgusted by the decision to use public resources for partisan political purposes while Alabama families are facing serious uncertainty about their ability to put food on the table. As billions of federal dollars in SNAP funding are being pulled away from Alabama communities, directly threatening the ability of families in my district to afford basic necessities, the President of the United States has chosen to take a personal political interest in my race and use taxpayer-funded resources to advocate for my opponent. That is unacceptable," said Robert Hunter, candidate for Alabama House District 28. "Our tax dollars should be used to serve the people -- not to influence elections, attack political opponents, or advance the interests of one candidate over another. Alabama families should never have to compete with political priorities for the resources they need to feed their children. A political decision was made, and it was clearly not made in the best interest of the people I represent. As a candidate and public servant, I have an obligation to stand up for my constituents and protect their interests. That means demanding accountability and taking every appropriate legal and political step necessary to challenge what appears to be an improper and potentially illegal use of public funds. The people of this district deserve better. They deserve representatives who will fight for their families, their communities, and their tax dollars -- not politicians who put partisan political interests ahead of the basic needs of their constituents. I will continue to fight to ensure that the resources meant for Alabama families are used to serve Alabama."
According to reporting, on August 7, President Trump met with Republican strategists who asked the president to use some of the $400 million in his super PAC to support Republicans in tight midterm elections. Weeks later, in late September, "several ads glorifying [President] Trump began appearing across the country." The ads were not, however, funded by President Trump's super PAC. Instead, the ads were paid for by taxpayers, after President Trump told Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Vought "to come up with the money" for the president's advertisements "from within the government." Though the president is now claiming that future ads will be paid for with non-governmental funds, the administration continues to air Trump's partisan propaganda that is still being paid for by U.S. taxpayer funds. The use of public money for political purposes remains a violation of the law that the court must address.
One of the ads run by the administration was identical to an ad that President Trump ran as a campaign ad in 2024. The only difference is that instead of a disclaimer that the ad was funded by the campaign, the ad's disclaimer reads: "Paid for by the United States Government."
Using taxpayer funds to pay for political ads disregards decades of an unequivocal Congressional mandate that public money not be used to benefit candidates for public office or political causes. In annual appropriations acts since 1952, Congress has included a provision that prohibits the use of appropriated funds for unauthorized "publicity or propaganda," and for more than 65 years, the Government Accountability Office has interpreted this prohibition to cover at least two types of publications: those that are "self-aggrandizing" or "purely partisan in nature." Additionally, for nearly 90 years, the Hatch Act has prohibited federal employees from using their positions to engage in political activities.
"American taxpayers shouldn't have to foot the bill for the president's politics. The ads are contrary to decades of clear Congressional requirements that prevent partisan ads being funded through taxpayer dollars," said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. "We are honored to work with our clients and eager for a court to intervene to stop these ads."
"There is no legal justification for using taxpayer dollars to bankroll campaign propaganda," said Campaign Legal Center Action Senior Vice President Bruce V. Spiva. "President Trump and his administration's political advertising scheme is a blatant misuse of taxpayer dollars and a clear violation of the law. It is yet another example of this administration attempting to bypass our constitutionally mandated separation of powers to influence voters while elections are already well underway. We are taking action to protect every American voter, uphold the rule of law and ensure that taxpayer resources are not misused for partisan political gain."
"Spending taxpayer dollars on partisan political ads is as corrupt as it gets," said Brendan Ballou, founder of the Public Integrity Project. "Even the President's allies are admitting this is wrong. It's also illegal, and we're going to stop it."
The complaint names a series of defendants, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), its current leader Secretary Markwayne Mullin; as well as the Office of Management and Budget and its director Russ Vought; and the Executive Office of the President and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The agencies and leaders named in the suit each participated in facilitating the illegal use of public money to air the ads.
The case is Common Cause et al. v. Department of Homeland Security et al. and Democracy Forward's legal team involved in this case includes Bradley Girard, Mike Gaffney, Sean Ouellette, Anashua Dutta, Paul Wolfson, and Robin Thurston.
Read the complaint filed here.
In addition to this federal lawsuit, Campaign Legal Center filed a Hatch Act complaint with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), the agency responsible for enforcing the Hatch Act. Democracy Forward has also called on OSC and DHS's Inspector General to investigate the use of taxpayer funds for a potential Hatch Act violation.
* * *
Democracy Forward Foundation is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org.
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Original text here: https://democracyforward.org/news/press-releases/coalition-challenges-unlawful-use-of-public-money-for-trump-political-ads/
[Category: Political]