Vice President JD Vance announced that the Trump administration is expanding the Mexico City Policy to restrict U.S. government funding not only for organizations that perform or promote abortions abroad, but also for those the administration says promote diversity, equity and inclusion and what it describes as “gender ideology.” The announcement was made at the annual March for Life rally in Washington, DC, where Vance sought to reassure anti-abortion advocates that the administration remains firmly committed to advancing their priorities.
Vance stated that the expanded policy would block all international nongovernmental organizations involved in abortion-related activities from receiving U.S. funds, while extending the restriction to organizations linked to DEI and gender-related initiatives. He framed the move as part of a broader effort to “protect life” and counter policies the administration views as harmful. The remarks reflect the administration’s broader crackdown on DEI initiatives, which has become a central element of its domestic and foreign policy agenda.
Originally established during the Reagan administration, the Mexico City Policy—often referred to by critics as the “Global Gag Rule”—has historically been repealed by Democratic administrations and reinstated by Republican ones. According to a senior administration official, the latest expansion significantly widens its scope by applying not only to foreign NGOs but also to international organizations and U.S.-based NGOs. The official added that the policy will now extend beyond approximately $8 billion in global health funding to cover more than $30 billion in U.S. foreign assistance.
The announcement comes amid mounting pressure from social conservatives for the administration to take stronger action to restrict access to abortion, particularly medication abortion. This includes an upcoming deadline for the administration to explain its opposition to a lawsuit that could eliminate access to abortion pills by mail. Vance acknowledged concerns within the anti-abortion movement about the pace of progress, while arguing that long-term gains have already been achieved through policy changes and judicial appointments.
During his remarks, Vance also highlighted personal milestones, including the recent announcement that he and his wife are expecting their fourth child. He presented this as aligning his personal life with the movement’s emphasis on family growth, reinforcing his message of commitment to the administration’s broader social and cultural agenda.
