Democrats and Republicans Unite Behind Proposition 38 to Cure and Prevent Diseases

The California Democratic Republican Parties join 70+ groups in supporting the Prop 38, proving finding cures for diseases is a fight that crosses party lines

SACRAMENTO, CA, UNITED STATES, October 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- In bipartisan spirit, both the California Democratic Party and the California Republican Party have endorsed YES on Proposition 38, the Immunology Medical Research & Cures Initiative, making it the only measure on the ballot to draw support from both parties.

“Cancer didn't ask which political party I belong to,” said Ruben Narvaez, a kidney cancer patient in Fontana whose life has been extended through immunotherapy. “The bipartisan support for Prop 38 demonstrates Californians are focused on our state being a leader in life-saving medical research."

Prop 38 will provide $8.4 billion in vitally needed funding to advance breakthrough immunology medical research to help cure and prevent cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and other persistent and debilitating diseases impacting nearly every California family.

“For patients and families facing cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other devastating diseases, scientific breakthroughs can mean longer, healthier lives,” said Rusty Hicks, Chair of the California Democratic Party. “Prop 38 invests in California’s world-class scientists to turn promising research into treatments and cures that save lives. California Democrats are proud to support YES on Prop 38.”

Immunotherapies harness the body’s immune system to recognize and stop disease and are already saving and extending lives for patients with melanoma, lung cancer, leukemia and lymphoma.

“Proposition 38 will provide critical investments to advance immunotherapy research to prevent and treat the most devastating diseases of our time, including cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s,” said Walt Allen, California Republican Party Initiatives Committee Chairman. “The California Republican Party supports this measure to accelerate vital research and cures for all Californians because it includes strong accountability requirements and it’s designed to pay for itself.”

Prop 38 represents a new approach to medical research funding, creating a collaborative statewide network. Half the funds will support competitive grants at California universities and nonprofit research institutions, while the other half will support a nonprofit immunology institute affiliated with the University of California that can bring together leading scientists, technology, laboratories, patients and clinical trials. The measure also requires collaboration among grantees so that discoveries, expertise, and best practices can be shared across institutions rather than remaining siloed.

Prop 38 is designed to pay for itself. Ten percent of all proceeds from the licensing of immunotherapies must be returned to California to offset the measure's total costs, including interest. Additionally, any cure or immunotherapy developed will be provided to California patients at a 20 percent discount below the national average. Prop 38 also includes strict accountability requirements, including:
● Two percent cap on state administrative expenses
● Public disclosure of spending
● Independent financial audits
● For-profit corporations are not eligible for grant funding

Both political parties join a broad coalition of more than 70 patient advocacy, medical, and research organizations urging Californians to vote YES on Prop 38 in the upcoming election.

Learn more at YESon38.com, including a coalition list and what supporters are saying.

Robin Swanson
YES on Prop 38