Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (left) and California Gov. Gavin Newsom are shown in official portraits. Both states have moved to join the World Health Organization–coordinated Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network following the United States’ withdrawal from the WHO, citing the need to maintain access to global outbreak intelligence and coordination. – Photo credits: Left photo: Office of the Governor of Illinois official portrait Right photo: Office of the Governor of California official portrait
CHICAGO/SACRAMENTO — Illinois
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced on February 3, 2026 that the state would join GOARN, citing the need to maintain access to global early-warning alerts, technical expertise, and coordinated response capabilities. California Gov. Gavin Newsom made a similar announcement earlier, on January 23, 2026, positioning California as the first U.S. state to join the network.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that the United States completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization on January 22, 2026, following a one-year notice period tied to a decision by President Donald Trump. The WHO said it regretted the move, warning that the decision could weaken global and domestic health security.
