RFK as Health Secretary?
Donald Trump’s reported consideration of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr) as Health Secretary is alarming. Trump seems to be on a roll making horrible choices, and seemingly picking based on loyalty to him, and not the nation. RFK Jr’s history of promoting anti-vaccine rhetoric, conspiracy theories, and scientifically baseless policies makes him a dangerous pick for overseeing the nation’s public health. Here’s why he is a terrible choice for this critical role.
RFK Jr is one of the most prominent anti-vaccine activists in the United States. He has spread disinformation about vaccine safety, including debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. His stance undermines public trust in vaccines, a cornerstone of disease prevention, and would be disastrous for public health efforts.
RFK Jr has called for an eight-year moratorium on infectious disease research. This proposal ignores the essential role such research plays in combating pandemics, developing treatments, and preparing for future outbreaks. Stalling research would leave the nation vulnerable to emerging health crises.
RFK Jr has a history of endorsing baseless conspiracy theories about public health and government institutions. From false claims about COVID-19 origins to misinformation about 5G technology, his views lack the credibility and scientific foundation needed for a role as significant as Health Secretary.
As a polarizing figure, RFK Jr would struggle to unite the public and health experts around evidence-based policies. Public health leadership requires trust, cooperation, and a commitment to science—qualities that RFK Jr’s track record does not demonstrate.
The Health Secretary must lead efforts to improve healthcare access, address disparities, and respond to crises. RFK Jr’s focus on discredited ideas and rejection of scientific consensus would hinder progress in these critical areas, jeopardizing the health and well-being of millions of Americans.
The Department of Health and Human Services is central to the nation’s health and safety. Appointing RFK Jr to lead it would undermine scientific progress, erode public trust, and weaken the nation’s preparedness for future health challenges. America deserves a Health Secretary grounded in science and committed to the well-being of all citizens, not someone whose policies and rhetoric threaten the very foundation of public health.