Reaction to RFK nomination: Not Good!

by Jon Scaccia November 18, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) to head the $1.7 trillion Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has sparked widespread alarm among public health experts. Kennedy, known for his promotion of debunked anti-vaccine claims and skepticism of scientific institutions like the CDC, FDA, and NIH, is being described as a significant threat to public health and science.

Public health leaders have voiced strong opposition. Paul Offit, a leading vaccinologist, likened the move to “putting a flat-earther in charge of NASA.” Concerns extend to Kennedy’s plans for FDA and CDC restructuring, including potential dismissals of agency staff and shifts toward “holistic” health approaches. While Kennedy has emphasized fighting obesity and chronic diseases, critics warn his policies could weaken essential regulatory frameworks.

Some Republican senators have expressed cautious support, while others, including anti-abortion advocates, remain skeptical due to Kennedy’s pro-choice stance. International reactions have been mixed, with some seeing merit in his focus on transparency and diet reform, though his anti-vaccine views are broadly condemned.

Kennedy’s ambitious plans may face congressional roadblocks, federal employment protections, and bipartisan support for HHS agencies. As former NIH Director Elias Zerhouni noted, “Time will tell” if Kennedy adjusts to the complexities of HHS governance.

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