Palin and Biden's Contrasting Records on HIV/AIDS

New York, NY -- Presidential nominees Barack Obama and John McCain, along with their respective Vice Presidential running mates, Joseph Biden and Sarah Palin, have sharply divergent records on HIV/AIDS, according to a revised report released today, "McCain-Palin vs. Obama-Biden on HIV/AIDS Issues," by Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC), the nation's largest HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment services organization.

Since releasing its initial report on the candidates in December 2007, GMHC has closely monitored what the candidates have said on HIV/AIDS issues throughout the summer, during the conventions, at the debates, as well as on the campaign trail.

Obama-Biden are supportive of the key domestic and global HIV/AIDS policy priorities of GMHC, while McCain-Palin are largely opposed. Specific contrasting issues highlighted in the report include:

"This report provides keen insight into which direction this country will take in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Incidence of HIV infection is on the rise, however that tide can once again be turned around with sound public policy," stated Dr. Marjorie J. Hill, Chief Executive Officer of Gay Men's Health Crisis. "The next President will have a great impact on the epidemic that will affect the health of millions of Americans, as well as a direction for the next generation."

This is a pivotal election year and much is at stake. The next President will direct the U.S. response to the domestic and global HIV/AIDS crisis for years to come.

One week from now we will choose the 44th President of the United States. We must ensure that his urgent priorities will include people living with HIV/AIDS and the ultimate goal of ending this devastating epidemic.