In a move that has stunned broadband advocates and local leaders across the country, President Donald Trump has officially dismantled the Digital Equity Act, a cornerstone of the Biden administration’s plan to expand internet access in underserved communities.

The president made the announcement Thursday on his social media platform, Truth Social, declaring the program unconstitutional and characterizing it as a “racist handout.” His message read in part, “No more woke handouts based on race! The Digital Equity Program is a RACIST and ILLEGAL $2.5 BILLION DOLLAR giveaway. I am ending this IMMEDIATELY and saving taxpayers BILLIONS OF DOLLARS!”

Despite Trump’s claim, the law did not distribute funds based on race. In fact, the legislation prohibited discrimination entirely, stating that eligibility for internet access improvements could not be denied on the basis of race, gender, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual