In a surprising move, Congress protected PEPFAR—the widely praised U.S. program that fights HIV/AIDS globally—from President Trump’s proposed budget cuts. While billions were slashed elsewhere in the spending package, this lifeline for millions survived intact.

Editor’s Note: PEPFAR isn’t just another line item—it’s saved over 25 million lives since 2003. Its survival signals bipartisan recognition that some programs are too critical to gut, even in a budget showdown. For countries relying on this aid, it’s a rare bit of stability amid political turbulence.