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STAT+: Top immunology association divided over $8.4-billion California ballot measure to fund the field, emails show
Publication: STAT
Author: Jonathan Wosen
Source published: 19/10/2026, 08:30:00 UTC
Briefing created: 20/10/2026, 07:46:14 UTC
Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 20/10/2026, 07:22:24 UTC.
Briefings
Internal emails reveal the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) is sharply divided over California's Proposition 38, which would fund $8.4 billion in research. A policy committee recommended rescinding the endorsement after learning the measure would benefit a research center co-founded by billionaire Gary Michelson, the AAI's leading backer. However, the association's governing council voted to maintain the endorsement after meeting with Michelson. Jacob Schumacher, AAI's director of government affairs, stated five council members voted to keep the endorsement, with one opposed and two abstentions, though the association did not plan to share these details.
Key points
- The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) is sharply divided over California's Proposition 38, which would provide $8.4 billion in taxpayer funding for research.
- Policy committee members recommended rescinding the endorsement after learning the measure would benefit a research center co-founded by billionaire Gary Michelson, the AAI's leading backer.
Context
The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) is a leading scientific society with over 7,700 members. The controversy centers on whether the organization should endorse a California ballot measure that would fund its own research, creating a potential conflict of interest between advocacy and financial support.
Limitations
Evidence is limited to internal emails from July and August 2026. Specific voting details (one opposed, two abstentions) were not shared by the association, and the full story requires continuing to STAT+. Uncertainty exists regarding the final council decision after the policy committee recommendation.
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