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Over 15,000 doctors have signed a letter opposing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services, citing his anti-vaccine stance and promotion of conspiracy theories as disqualifying. The letter, published by the Committee to Protect Health Care, highlights Kennedy’s dissemination of misinformation regarding COVID-19 treatments, school shootings, and vaccine efficacy, deeming him a danger to public health. Despite Kennedy’s spokesperson dismissing the opposition, significant backlash from various medical and advocacy groups continues, fueled by concerns about the potential impact on public health initiatives. This opposition includes a campaign urging healthcare professionals to contact their senators and concerns raised about Kennedy’s role in the spread of vaccine misinformation that allegedly contributed to a measles outbreak in Samoa.
President-elect Trump’s appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead Health and Human Services has sparked controversy due to Kennedy’s vocal anti-vaccine stance and promotion of the debunked link between autism and childhood vaccines. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence refuting this connection, Trump expressed a desire to investigate the issue, citing a perceived increase in autism diagnoses. This decision is a significant departure from previous statements and raises concerns about the potential erosion of public trust in vaccinations and the agency’s commitment to evidence-based public health policy. Trump maintains support for vaccines, but his statement indicates an openness to exploring this thoroughly discredited claim.
Former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb expressed deep concern over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for HHS Secretary, predicting potentially life-threatening consequences due to Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance. Gottlieb anticipates decreased vaccination rates leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles. He also highlighted Kennedy’s controversial views on abortion and other issues, suggesting potential opposition from Republican senators during the confirmation process. Gottlieb further asserted that President-elect Trump likely does not share Kennedy’s views on vaccines.
John Q. Hosedrinker