Obama did not sell, create, or launch a program for "Obama phones." The term "Obama phone" is a nickname that originated from a political myth. Here are the facts regarding the program: The Program:The Program: The actual program is called Lifeline, and it was established in 1985 during the Reagan administration to provide low-income households with discounts on telephone service.Lifeline1985 during the Reagan administration Expansion to Wireless:Expansion to Wireless: The ability to use Lifeline discounts for wireless service was added in 2005, and the option to choose between landline or wireless service was introduced in 2008—both of which occurred during the George W. Bush administration.George W. Bush administration Funding: The program is not funded by taxpayers or the federal government. It is funded through the Universal Service Fund, which is supported by fees paid by telecommunications companies (these costs are sometimes passed on to consumers as a small line item on their phone bills). Distribution:Distribution: The government does not distribute the phones. Eligible low-income individuals apply for the program through independent, private telecommunications companies. If approved, those companies provide the service or equipment. The term "Obama phone" gained popularity due to viral emails and political rhetoric during the 2009–2012 period, which incorrectly associated the existing program with President Obama. AI
