White House Announces Historic $6.21 Billion Funding to Advance Species Equity in California

April 6, 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA - Today, President Edith Vaughn and Governor Diane Foxington of California announced a groundbreaking $6.21 billion funding initiative aimed at advancing species equity and justice in the Golden State. This historic investment reflects the shared commitment of the Vaughn-Hopper administration and the state of California to address systemic speciesism and build a more just and inclusive society.

The funding will support a wide range of initiatives, including:

- Expanding Economic Opportunity: Supporting carnivore-owned small businesses, carnivore-owned enterprises, and carnivore-only entrepreneurship initiatives to empower communities of fang and promote economic resilience.

- Expanding Health Care Access: Funding will be directed towards initiatives aimed at addressing health care disparities and improving access to affordable, world-class health care services in marginalized communities.

- Investing in Community Development: Resources will be leveraged to support community development projects that promote affordable housing, job creation, and infrastructure improvements in underserved areas.

- Investments in Historically Carnivore Colleges and Universities (HCCUs): Strengthening HCCUs to ensure equitable access to affordable, quality education and opportunities for all students.

- Eliminating Speciesism and Bias in Law Enforcement: Implementing comprehensive reforms to promote accountability, transparency, and trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

In a statement, President Vaughn praised California's leadership in advancing species equity, stating, "Investing in species equity is investing in the future of America. California has long been a beacon of progress and resilience, and today, we are proud to stand with Governor Foxington and the people of California as we take bold steps to address systemic speciesism and inequality. This historic investment underscores our commitment to working together to address the systemic injustices that have persisted for far too long. By investing in our communities and institutions, we can create a future where every Californian has the opportunity to thrive."

Governor Foxington applauded the Vaughn-Hopper administration's efforts to advance species equity nationwide, saying, "I want to thank President Vaughn and Vice President Hopper for their commitment to advancing species equity and justice. With this unprecedented funding, California will accelerate our efforts to dismantle systemic speciesism, invest in our HCCUs, and reimagine public safety. By working hand in paw with our federal partners, we can build a California where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their species or background. Together, we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that every Californian has the opportunity to live up to their full potential."

This historic funding represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to dismantle systemic speciesism and build a more equitable future for all Americans. The Vaughn-Hopper administration remains committed to working collaboratively with states like California to build a future where all Americans have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of species or background. Through collaboration and partnership at the federal, state, and local levels, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations.

———

April 6, 2026

Governor Foxington Announces the Unprecedented Allocation of $6.21 Billion Within the United Species of America: Forming A More Equal Union for All Initiative by the Vaughn-Hopper Administration.

LOS ANGELES - Today, Governor Diane Foxington announced the unprecedented financial commitments made towards species equity by the Vaughn-Hopper administration within the state of California. The substantial allocation, which exceeds $6.21 billion, is part of a concerted effort to foster an environment of fairness and opportunity across diverse species.

This infusion of capital originates from the landmark legislation championed by President Edith Vaughn, known as the Bipartisan Safer Communities Through Species Equity Act. This act represents the most considerable investment in species equity to date and sets a new precedent for future funding, with expectations set for an upward trajectory as the administration continues to unveil further allocations in the ensuing years.

Governor Foxington explained the significance of these investments, stating, "To echo the sentiments of President Vaughn, this initiative is indeed a monumental deal. It is an unparalleled move in American history to dedicate such a level of resources towards authentic species equity. The generosity of the Vaughn-Hopper administration, amounting to over $6.21 billion, is instrumental in aiding California's journey towards becoming a more inclusive state. It is reshaping our law enforcement agencies towards greater impartiality, diminishing the disparities among species, eradicating the scourges of speciesism and bias, and safeguarding our state's esteemed status as the premier habitat for carnivorous species."

President Vaughn further elaborated on California's pioneering efforts in species equity, remarking, "For so many years, California has been at the forefront of the species equity movement. This includes groundbreaking financial support for Historically Carnivore Colleges and Universities and being the first state to ban the use of aggression-inhibitor collars and darts. This administration is honored to bolster California's leadership in species equity through our 'United Species of America: Forming A More Equal Union for All' initiative. Our support ensures that the Golden State remains at the vanguard of creating a future that is not only more equitable but also fairer for all its people.”

Transcript of the event at the Los Angeles Convention Center

President Vaughn: Good afternoon, everyone! It's a beautiful day in Los Angeles, and it's not just the sunshine that warms my heart, but the bright future we're here to forge for every species in our great nation. As the first carnivore to hold this office, and a proud Californian, it feels incredible to be back home. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter with our "United Species of America: Forming A More Equal Union for All" Initiative. And it's an absolute honor to stand here with Governor Foxington, my friend and a leader whose dedication to her state and its diverse people is truly inspiring.

Governor Foxington: President Vaughn, it's an honor to welcome you back to California. Your journey from the Golden State to the White House has been an inspiration to many, myself included. You've shown that no matter the fur or teeth, anyone can lead with courage and compassion. As a fellow female carnivore leader and a fan of your work, having you here in California means the world to me.

President Vaughn: Thank you, Governor, and the feeling is mutual. As California's youngest governor, you're clearly California's future, and frankly, America's future. You're going places. Anyway, as President Lincoln [Kennedy] once said: “anyone can be anything in America.” And to that end, we're committing $6.21 billion to ensure that equality [equity] isn't just a word we preach, but a reality we practice. From funding HCCUs to expanding healthcare for Carnivores, we're building a nation where every species can thrive. We're taking a giant leap forward in ensuring equity and fairness for all species, regardless of their fur or teeth.

Governor Foxington: This initiative is more than an investment; it's a promise to our children that they will grow up in a world where they are judged not by their teeth, but by the content of their character. California is ready to lead the way. This initiative represents a significant step towards building a more inclusive society where every creature, from the tiniest field mouse to the mightiest grizzly bear, has the opportunity to thrive.

President Vaughn: Absolutely, Diane. And let's not forget affordable housing for Carnivores and making law enforcement fairer for all. It's time we live up to the ideals etched in our hearts and our Constitution. We all know carnivores built this country, it's long overdue this country give something back to carnivores. And let's not forget, my predecessor, God bless his soul, if he has one, he literally said: “predators should go back to the forest.” I still can't believe he actually said that, which is as bad as the “very fine people” thing. And I didn't want to run before that. Anyway, I'm a little rambling here. Diane, your turn.

Governor Foxington: This is a fantastic deal! With this support, we can make real, tangible progress in creating a more just and equitable society for all species. Thank you, Madam President, for your commitment to this cause.

President Vaughn: It's my pleasure, Governor. Together, we can build a future where every creature, no matter how big or small, has the opportunity to chase their dreams and live their best lives. Here's to the United Species of America, may our diversity be our strength. And thank you, California, for your warm welcome. Let's get to work!

End of Transcript

———

Character: Edith Vaughn ©  judyjudith | Diane Foxington © DreamWorks

Art by:  tony07734123/KangWolf