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Washington Post

Washington Post

US Politics

US Politics

Trump ends program millions in China use for internet, worrying Congress

Washington Post
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The Open Technology Fund ( OTF ) was intended to allow people who live under repressive regimes to access the internet.

President Donald Trump 's executive order essentially terminated the group’s $43.5 million annual funding.

Republicans argue the nonprofit is a crucial tool to counter the rise of Beijing .

The OTF 's grant termination has prompted members of Congress from both parties to contact the Trump administration.

Internet freedom experts said they are particularly worried about the impact it will have on people using its tools in China .

“Once we lose a user from one of our VPNs, particularly in China , it is almost impossible to get them back,” Cunningham said. “This has clear consequences for any future U.S. government effort to reach people behind authoritarian fire walls”.