FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. — April 15, 2026 — United Against Fentanyl (UAF), a leading national nonprofit organization advancing comprehensive solutions to the fentanyl crisis, today announced the appointment of Richard J. Baum to its Advisory Board.
Baum, who previously served as Acting Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)—commonly known as the “Drug Czar”—brings nearly three decades of experience shaping U.S. policy on drugs, addiction, and organized crime. His appointment marks a significant milestone for UAF as it continues expanding its leadership in grassroots mobilization, public awareness, and bipartisan policy reform.
“Richard Baum is one of the most respected and knowledgeable drug policy leaders in the country,” said Paul Martin, Founder and President of United Against Fentanyl. “His decision to join our Advisory Board underscores UAF’s growing influence in driving credible, solutions-oriented approaches to the fentanyl crisis. We are honored to have his expertise guiding our advocacy at the national level.”
Baum played a central role in leading the President’s Opioid Commission (2017–2018)—a pivotal period during the rapid escalation of fentanyl-related deaths nationwide. Across his distinguished career, Baum has served under multiple presidential administrations and built enduring relationships throughout Congress, federal agencies, and the broader policy community.
“It is time to put the much needed policies and resources behind what we know will save lives,” Baum said. “I am honored to join with the rapidly growing United Against Fentanyl coalition to drive change in Washington and around the nation.”
Baum is the author of Inside America’s Opioid Crisis: 12 Hard Lessons for Today’s Drug War, which offers a comprehensive roadmap for reforming U.S. drug policy. Drawing on decades of experience, the book identifies core systemic challenges—including stigma, racial inequities, fragmented treatment systems, and chronic underinvestment in recovery—and outlines actionable strategies for change.
As an Advisory Board member, Baum will support UAF’s federal policy initiatives, including developing legislative recommendations informed by the principles outlined in his work. He will also contribute through media engagement, public speaking, and direct policy advising.
In addition to his new role with UAF, Baum serves as a Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy where he remains an active voice in national discussions on drug policy, public health, and law enforcement collaboration.
Baum’s appointment reflects UAF’s commitment to pairing lived experience with top-tier policy expertise to confront the fentanyl epidemic through unified, bipartisan action.
