The AMA's Struggle in the Era of Trump
Introduction
The American Medical Association, once a powerful force in Washington, is facing a new challenge in the era of Trump. As the leading physicians' group, they are struggling to maintain their relevance while navigating the changing political landscape. With the administration's policies often at odds with the AMA's values, the group must balance opposition with concerns over their own financial interests.
Challenges for the AMA
The AMA's biggest concern is the potential impact of the administration's policies on healthcare. With the Affordable Care Act under threat of repeal, the AMA is fighting to protect the gains made in coverage and access to care for millions of Americans. At the same time, they must also consider the financial implications for their members, many of whom rely on government reimbursements for their services.
Strategic Decisions
To remain a relevant and influential player in Washington, the AMA is making strategic decisions in their approach to the administration. While publicly opposing policies that go against their core values, they are also seeking to engage in productive dialogue to influence decision-making. They are also focusing on building relationships with key members of Congress who have the power to shape healthcare legislation.
About the Organizations Mentioned
American Medical Association
The **American Medical Association (AMA)**, founded in 1847 by Nathan Smith Davis in Philadelphia, is the largest and only national association in the U.S. representing over 190 state and specialty medical societies with a membership of approximately 271,660 as of 2022[1][6][7]. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the AMA's mission is to promote the science and art of medicine, advocate for physicians, and improve public health. The AMA's early history was marked by efforts to regulate medical practice and protect the public. It campaigned against quack remedies and patent medicines, influencing legislation such as the Drug Importation Act of 1848 and the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906[1]. The organization also pioneered medical record standardization and vaccination mandates, including compulsory smallpox vaccination laws at the turn of the 20th century[1]. It launched influential medical publications, notably the *Journal of the American Medical Association* (JAMA) in 1883, which remains a leading medical journal today[1]. The AMA played a significant role in shaping medical education, supporting reforms inspired by the 1910 Flexner Report, which emphasized rigorous academic standards, full-time faculty, and integration of research and clinical practice—principles that transformed U.S. medical training and hospital systems[4]. Despite its foundational role, the AMA's history includes controversy, particularly regarding racial exclusion policies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that prompted the establishment of the National Medical Association as an alternative for Black physicians[3]. Today, the AMA continues to be a powerful advocate for physicians and healthcare policy, offering essential resources such as continuing medical education (CME), practice management tools, and a comprehensive residency and fellowship database (FREIDA)[6][7]. It is deeply involved in addressing current healthcare challenges, including physician advocacy, public health initiatives, and technological advancements in medicine. Notably, the AMA’s origins trace back to
Trump Administration
The **Trump Administration** refers to the executive branch of the United States government under President Donald J. Trump, covering two non-consecutive periods: his first term from 2017 to 2021 and his second term beginning in 2025. As an organization, it is responsible for executing federal laws, shaping public policy, and managing national affairs during its tenure. During the **first Trump Administration (2017–2021)**, the administration pursued a wide-ranging agenda focused on immigration reform, economic nationalism, deregulation, judiciary appointments, and foreign policy shifts. Key actions included building and expanding the U.S.-Mexico border wall—completing 458 miles by January 2021—and implementing strict immigration policies such as travel bans from several predominantly Muslim countries and rescinding the DAPA amnesty program[2]. The administration withdrew the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, renegotiated NAFTA into the USMCA, and signed the "Buy American and Hire American" executive order to prioritize American workers[1][3][5]. Judicially, Trump appointed three Supreme Court justices—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett—significantly influencing the federal judiciary with over 200 judicial appointments[5]. The administration also focused on military expansion, combating ISIS, addressing the opioid crisis, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with vaccine development support[5]. Foreign policy was marked by controversial decisions including troop withdrawals from northern Syria, reinforced support for Saudi Arabia, and tensions with Iran and North Korea[4]. The administration faced two impeachments: first in 2019 over Ukraine dealings and again in 2021 following the January Capitol riot; Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times[4][5]. After losing the 2020 election, Trump returned for a **second term starting in 2025**, continuing his policy priorities with new regulatory changes and political appointments[6][8]. The Trump Administration
Congress
The United States Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government, playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation's policies and laws. As a bicameral legislature, it consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with distinct responsibilities. The House represents congressional districts, while the Senate represents states, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard. **History and Structure:** Congress has a rich history, evolving over time to reflect the nation's demographic changes and political shifts. It is structured into committees that specialize in various policy areas, facilitating the legislative process. The National Archives and Records Administration maintains historical records of Congress, highlighting its ongoing role in governance. **Key Achievements:** Throughout its history, Congress has achieved numerous milestones, including landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act and the Affordable Care Act. It has also played a significant role in shaping the nation's economic policies, influencing business and technological advancements. **Current Status:** The 119th Congress, which convened in January 2025, marks significant changes with a Republican majority in both chambers. This setup has implications for policy-making, especially in areas like healthcare and technology regulation. The current Congress is also notable for its diversity, being the most racially and ethnically diverse in history. **Notable Aspects:** - **Diversity and Representation:** The 119th Congress is the most diverse in U.S. history, with increased representation from diverse ethnic backgrounds and the inclusion of the first openly transgender federal legislator. - **Technological Integration:** Congress uses technology to enhance legislative processes, such as through platforms like Congress.gov, which provides access to legislative information and resources. - **Economic Impact:** Congress's decisions have profound impacts on business and technology sectors, influencing regulatory environments and investment opportunities. In summary, the U.S. Congress is a dynamic institution that plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's policies, laws, and economic landscape. Its ongoing evolution reflects the changing needs and demographics of the country, making it a vital
