This week marks Governor Bruce Rauner’s 100th day in office. The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) has issued a “report card” grading his work on issues affecting those living with and vulnerable to HIV during his first 100 days.
In Illinois, less than 50% of people living with HIV are linked to care and virally suppressed. HIV continues to ravage communities of color, and new HIV infections continue to grow among youth.
Governor Rauner received a grade of “F” in all categories except one, receiving a “B” for community engagement and dialogue. Recently, the governor met with HIV and LGBTQ advocates about his proposed budget cuts. During his meeting with advocates, Rauner stated he was willing to continue to engage in dialogue about the issue.
“We hope he is serious about educating himself on how his devastating cuts would affect the HIV community,” said Joshua Oaks, AFC’s policy communications coordinator. “And we hope he won’t fix Illinois’ fiscal problems at the expense of those living with HIV.”
