On Thursday, President-elect Donald Trump announced his nomination of vaccine skeptic Robert F Kennedy Jr to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Trump shared the news on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating, “I am excited to appoint Robert F Kennedy Jr as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services [HHS].” Kennedy, also known as RFK Jr, is a 70-year-old environmental lawyer and member of the American political Kennedy family. He is the son of the late US senator and attorney general Robert F Kennedy and the nephew of former US president John F Kennedy. Kennedy has a neurological disorder that affects his voice, which he has attributed to a flu vaccine he received. He previously announced plans to run for president in 2024 as a Democrat, then as an independent, before ultimately withdrawing from the race and endorsing Trump. Trump has long praised Kennedy for his dedication to human health and the environment. The US Department of Health and Human Services oversees federal health matters, including the FDA, CDC, NIH, and Medicare and Medicaid Services. Kennedy has faced controversy for his views on vaccines, fluoride in water, and the FDA. He has expressed skepticism about vaccines and suggested a link between vaccines and autism, a claim that has been debunked by scientific studies. Kennedy has also criticized the FDA for alleged corporate interests and suppression of certain therapies. Additionally, he has been vocal against COVID-19 lockdowns and promoted hydroxychloroquine as a treatment, despite lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness. Trump’s nomination of Kennedy has received mixed reactions from politicians, with some Republicans supporting the decision and some Democrats expressing concerns about Kennedy’s views on public health issues. Critics worry that Kennedy’s appointment could jeopardize public health efforts and research progress.
