| Photo by Rita Chauhan on Unsplash
HARTFORD, CT — In a bold move to safeguard public health and counter rising misinformation, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and 14 other U.S. governors have launched the Governors’ Public Health Alliance—a nonpartisan coalition aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness, promoting science-based health policies, and coordinating with global health leaders.
Announced on October 15, 2025, the Alliance brings together governors from states including California, New York, Illinois, Washington, and Michigan. It will serve as a strategic hub for sharing data, best practices, and public health expertise across state lines.
“We’ve seen firsthand how disinformation and political interference can undermine public health,” said Governor Lamont. “This Alliance is about putting science and people first—ensuring that governors have the tools and trusted networks to respond swiftly and effectively to health threats.”
The initiative is supported by GovAct, a nonprofit that helps governors protect fundamental freedoms, including public health. The Alliance will also engage advisors such as former CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen and global health expert Dr. Raj Panjabi to guide its strategy and outreach.
Governor Gavin Newsom of California emphasized the urgency of the effort: “From wildfires to pandemics, our states face overlapping crises. We need coordinated, science-driven responses—not just within our borders, but in partnership with global health leaders.”
The Alliance builds on successful regional collaborations like the Northeast Public Health Collaborative and the West Coast Health Alliance. It aims to fill gaps left by federal inaction and ensure that data, not politics, drive public health decisions.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York added, “Public health is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can amplify our impact, protect our communities, and lead with integrity.”
Key goals of the Alliance include:
Enhancing emergency preparedness and response coordination.
Promoting vaccine access and disease surveillance.
Countering health misinformation with trusted, science-based communication.
Aligning with international health standards and organizations.
The governors also pledged to advocate for sustained investments in public health infrastructure and workforce development.
“This is about resilience,” said Governor J.B. Pritzker of Illinois. “We’re building a framework that can withstand future crises—whether it’s a new pandemic, a climate-related disaster, or a bioterrorism threat.”
The Alliance will convene regularly to share updates, coordinate responses, and issue joint guidance. It also plans to engage with community leaders, educators, and health professionals to ensure inclusive and equitable outreach.
Governor Jay Inslee of Washington noted, “We’re not just reacting to the last crisis—we’re preparing for the next. And we’re doing it together.”
As the nation continues to navigate complex health challenges, the Governors’ Public Health Alliance offers a proactive, collaborative model for leadership rooted in science, transparency, and public trust.
