Internal emails reveal that the American Association of Immunologists is divided over California Proposition 38, an $8.4 billion bond measure for immunology research. In July 2026, the group's policy committee recommended rescinding its endorsement after learning the funds would likely benefit a research center co-founded by the measure's key donor, Gary Michelson. However, the governing council voted 5–1 in August 2026 to keep the endorsement.
Internal debate over Proposition 38 endorsement
- ▪In July 2026, the American Association of Immunologists' policy and advocacy committee recommended rescinding endorsement of California Proposition 38 after learning it would likely yield a windfall for a research center co-founded by Gary Michelson, its main billionaire backer.
- ▪In August 2026, the governing council of the American Association of Immunologists voted 5 to 1, with two abstentions, to maintain its endorsement of California Proposition 38 after meeting with Gary Michelson.
- ▪An internal email from Jacob Schumacher, government affairs director for the 7,700-member American Association of Immunologists, indicated the group did not plan to publicly share details of its August 2026 council vote.
Details of California Proposition 38
- ▪California Proposition 38 would potentially raise state spending by $500 million to $600 million annually over approximately 20 years.
- ▪California Proposition 38 would authorize the state to borrow $8.4 billion in bonds to fund medical research on immunology and immunotherapy.
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