Clinton Foundation Launches CPI to Address Health, Economic Security, and Democracy

The Clinton Foundation has initiated a new effort to aid state and local governments in crafting nonpartisan policy solutions aimed at enhancing health outcomes, particularly for women and children, improving economic security, and strengthening democracy. Named the Clinton Policy Institute (CPI), this initiative represents the foundation’s first significant program launch in over ten years. Its goal is to convene political leaders from both parties, research experts, and those impacted by these pivotal issues to forge fresh strategies for age-old challenges.

Hillary Rodham Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State, stated, “Rising costs, economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and growing pressures on our public institutions make it harder for families to progress.” She emphasized CPI’s commitment to practical, evidence-based solutions aimed at improving people’s lives. The initiative has demonstrated its potential through earlier collaboration with New York state, focusing on banning cell phones in schools to enhance students’ learning environments.

The foundation, also spearheaded by former President Bill Clinton and public health expert Chelsea Clinton, has a history of leveraging successful pilot programs. This tactic was similarly utilized in the 2004 launch of the Clinton Health Access Initiative. Zayn Siddique is leading CPI as the Chief Executive Officer, while Jennifer Klein serves as its chair.

In New York, CPI’s collaboration resulted in improved classroom behavior and engagement, thanks to the formation of the Teen Tech Council. This success supports CPI’s model of assembling policymakers, researchers, business leaders, and community organizations to identify successful practices and develop robust policy networks. “We’re focused on states and local communities where innovation is occurring,” Hillary Clinton remarked.

Kansas Governor Encourages CPI’s Approach

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly commended CPI for its nonpartisan approach during a recent conference on children’s welfare. As a Democrat governor in a predominantly conservative state, Kelly values CPI’s bipartisan methodology in addressing issues concerning children’s health and education. Her experience underscores CPI’s potential to bridge political divides and implement solutions.

“Every once in a while, you get people from both sides of the aisle who come together and create what needs to be done,” Kelly noted.

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams agrees with the approach but acknowledges the inherent political nature of health issues. He believes that finding bipartisan support for solutions is feasible and highlights CPI’s efforts to promote such policies, especially for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

CPI’s National Impact on Children’s Welfare

Adams, who has assumed the role of co-chair of the National Leadership Council for the ACE Resource Network, commends CPI’s strategy. He highlighted California’s ACEs Aware initiative, which screens and treats ACEs early. This initiative demonstrates CPI’s capacity to implement successful state-level policies elsewhere, influencing even Republican-led states like Utah and Georgia.

Hillary Clinton expressed hope in CPI’s future, emphasizing the need to share and expand innovative policies developed by leaders across the country. She believes that exchanging successful ideas will fortify families and communities nationwide.

Note: Coverage of philanthropic endeavors by the Associated Press is supported through collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP retains sole responsibility for this content.