On Thursday, former President Trump criticized President Biden’s high-speed internet initiative, labeling it as “racist” and “illegal.” He asserted plans to halt the digital equity law established during Biden’s presidency.
Trump mentioned discussing the Biden-era program with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, which allocated around $2.75 billion for technological improvements, including internet access and skills training for Americans.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Lutnick and I agree that the so-called ‘digital equity law’ is entirely unconstitutional. This $2.5 billion program is a giveaway that I’ve decided to terminate, saving taxpayers billions!”
Signed into law in 2021 as part of a $1 trillion infrastructure package, the Digital Equity Act aimed to promote a comprehensive internet initiative involving diverse groups. Approximately $60 million has been set aside for state and local grants to enhance access to technology, along with another $2.5 billion to implement these plans.
Throughout his presidency, Trump had attempted to dismantle several diversity and equity programs. The focus of the internet initiative was to support varying communities.
Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), the original author of the Digital Equity Act, responded to Trump’s comments, asserting that he was misinformed. “I wrote the Digital Equity Act to address the digital divide in America, ensuring older individuals can access the internet and have the necessary tools for success in education,” she stated.
She added, “My legislation offers significant flexibility for local governments, allowing each community to determine how to allocate their digital equity funds, which was why it received broad, bipartisan backing.”
Should Trump attempt to cancel the grants allocated by Congress, it could lead to legal challenges, according to Murray. She insisted that failing to utilize these funds would essentially rob the American public. “It’s ridiculous; everyone from local schools to libraries and workforce training programs were intended to benefit from addressing digital disparities,” she stated.
