Title: The End of an Era - McGruff's Fentanyl Campaign Cuts by Trump Administration
In recent years, McGruff the Crime Dog has been fighting crime in a new way – raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and counterfeit prescription pills. However, this campaign may soon come to an end as the Trump administration cuts federal funding for the program. The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office had partnered with McGruff in 2020 to launch a new initiative called "Go For Real," which aimed at educating young people about the risks associated with these drugs.
The decision to cut funding for this program has raised concerns among advocates who fear that any cuts to public education drug programs could reverse progress made in the fight against substance abuse and addiction. While the nearly $2 million cut may seem modest, Paul DelPonte, Executive Director of NCPC, argues that losing Go For Real will have a significant impact on efforts to save lives.
Historically, McGruff has been known for his gritty public service announcements warning children about drug use and stranger danger in the 1980s and 1990s. However, with the rise of fentanyl-related deaths, it seems that the crime dog's focus shifted to address more contemporary threats. The potential implications of this funding cut are dire – not only does it threaten ongoing efforts to educate young people about the dangers of drugs, but it also sends a message that drug abuse prevention is no longer a priority for the current administration.
As someone who values education and public health initiatives, I believe that cutting funding for programs like Go For Real is short-sighted and dangerous. We must continue to invest in efforts aimed at preventing substance abuse and saving lives. The life-and-death impact of these campaigns cannot be overstated – every dollar spent on prevention could potentially save countless lives from the devastating effects of drug addiction.
In conclusion, while it may seem like a small cut in funding, ending federal support for McGruff's fentanyl campaign has significant implications for our society's fight against substance abuse and addiction. We must remain vigilant in supporting programs that educate young people about the dangers of drugs and work towards creating a safer future for all.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/08/08/g-s1-81074/mcgruff-crime-dog-fentanyl-campaign-cuts) #trump
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