RELEASE: PhRMA Spends Millions to Fund Trump Inauguration, Block Prescription Drug Affordability Measures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Kevin Barajas

Program Lead, Citizen Action/Illinois

kevin@citizenaction-il.org

(956) 466-4637

CHICAGO – A report by the Wall Street Journal shows that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is sending seven-figure contributions to the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. PhRMA previously pledged to withhold financial support from election-denying politicians after the attack on the United States Capitol on January 6th, 2021. 

Anusha Thotakura, Director of Citizen Action/Illinois, said “While Big Pharma pours millions into President-elect Trump’s hold at the federal level, they are also spending heavily to oppose Illinois’ Prescription Drug Affordability Board. We must put people over profits and hold these companies accountable for skyrocketing drug prices.”

Since 2019, the top ten pharmaceutical manufacturers in Illinois – including Pfizer, Merck, and Johnson & Johnson – have made contributions totaling over $1.5 million to halt attempts at regulation. PhRMA has lobbied against the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, which would lower the costs of vital medications, since its introduction last year.

“I am proud to sponsor the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, a critical step to ensure that Illinois families aren’t left to suffer because of corporate greed,” said Rep. Nabeela Syed. “We won’t let their deep pockets stand in the way of making prescription drugs more affordable to everyone”.

Large pharmaceutical corporations often cite the cost of research & development as a major reason for opposing prescription drug affordability measures, while consistently spending billions on advertising, lobbying, and political contributions.

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Citizen Action/Illinois (CA/IL) is a progressive policy advocacy and political coalition that works for social, economic, and racial justice in Illinois. CA/IL has led campaigns for policies that benefit working families, including a progressive tax system, expanding access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, and protecting voting rights. For more information, visit citizenaction-il.org.