By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent public remarks regarding alleged links between acetaminophen, autism, and circumcision have surprised Republican senators who previously voted to confirm him as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy made unfounded claims about the causes of autism, specifically referencing a TikTok video involving Tylenol use during pregnancy and suggesting a correlation between infant circumcision and increased autism rates. Senators such as Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski expressed confusion and indicated that these viewpoints were new to them. The Independent reached out to Senator Bill Cassidy for comment.
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Republicans who voted to confirm RFK Jr. baffled by his autism-circumcision claims: ‘That’s new’. Right, so here’s the thing that’s got people talking: seemingly, some Republicans are acting surprised about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent statements linking autism to circumcision. Now, the whole thing is like a slow-motion train wreck, and it’s not particularly shocking, especially considering the guy’s history. It’s almost as if they didn’t do their homework before, well, *approving* him. Seriously, this isn’t exactly breaking news, but it seems to be a bit of a head-scratcher for those who, apparently, didn’t know what they were getting into.
It’s quite obvious that many people think he is a lunatic. Let’s be honest, the guy has a history of, shall we say, unconventional ideas. From claims that vaccines cause autism, a well-disproven claim, to any number of outlandish conspiracy theories, it’s a pattern. The fact that his confirmation was even considered raises some serious questions about the vetting process. If they were oblivious to his stances on health-related issues then they are bad at their job. And let’s not forget, the man has been on a wild ride for a long time. So, the surprise, even if genuine, feels a bit… late to the party.
And if the surprise is genuine, it doesn’t reflect well on their knowledge and research into the person they voted to confirm. The claim that autism is linked to circumcision isn’t just a fringe belief; it’s a dangerous one, devoid of any scientific basis. This is the kind of stuff that could cause damage. Considering all the other issues that have been brought to light, it’s understandable that people are reacting with a mixture of shock and disbelief.
The fact that some Republicans seem to be taken aback by this specific claim is, frankly, baffling to many. It’s like they weren’t paying attention during the entire vetting process. Or maybe, they’re just playing dumb. The man’s history is very well documented and even his family has warned the public about his ideas and qualifications. It’s hard to know which is worse: ignorance or deliberate disregard.
Then there’s the whole circumcision aspect. The fact that RFK Jr. is talking about an established medical procedure and twisting it into some kind of cause for autism is the problem. Circumcising infants is something that has been argued for years, but to make the claims is something that is a new level of insanity.
The reaction also speaks to the broader issue of how some within the Republican party seem to selectively pick and choose which of RFK Jr.’s views they’re willing to accept. Perhaps, they’re just getting around to realizing that this guy is a few fries short of a Happy Meal. And some are starting to see that their party is full of incompetent people.
The crux of the matter is that some of these claims aren’t just misguided; they’re dangerous. It’s an insult to science and a slap in the face to those living with autism.
So, as it stands, some Republicans are expressing surprise at the latest bizarre statement, and it raises questions about their judgment and whether they are actually fit for their job. Whether it’s ignorance, malice, or simply a lack of foresight, their reaction has been very telling to many.