The 2024 U.S. Elections: Global Health Policy at a Crossroads

Area of Science:

• Political Science
• Public Health Policy
• International Relations

Background:

• The United States has historically led global health initiatives through UN institutions and bilateral aid.
• Political polarization has increasingly challenged U.S. engagement in global health, impacting organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).
• This polarization was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Presidential Elections, highlighting its significant consequences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the critical implications of the 2024 U.S. election on global health policy.
• To examine the contrasting visions for global health across U.S. political parties.
• To underscore the importance of U.S. leadership in global health governance.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of U.S. political party platforms regarding global health.
• Review of historical U.S. engagement in international health organizations and initiatives.
• Assessment of the potential impact of election outcomes on global health funding and policy.

Main Results:

• The 2024 election presents distinct global health visions, influencing international cooperation and U.S. leadership.
• Key areas impacted include global governance, health funding, reproductive health, corporate regulations, tax equity, humanitarian issues, and climate change.
• Political polarization poses a significant threat to sustained U.S. involvement in global health.

Conclusions:

• The outcome of the 2024 U.S. election is pivotal for the future trajectory of global health policy.
• Candidates must articulate their positions on global health, and voters need to understand these implications.
• The election's results will shape the effectiveness of international health efforts and U.S. influence in global health.