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Trump Discusses Autism-Vaccine Link with RFK Jr. in TIME Interview

Dec 12, 2024, 09:48 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has expressed openness to reconsidering childhood vaccination programs, following discussions with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., his nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services. In an interview with TIME Magazine, Trump mentioned that he plans to have a 'big discussion' with Kennedy about the potential link between vaccines and autism, a topic Kennedy has long advocated for. Trump acknowledged the rising incidence of autism, suggesting that there might be a cause worth investigating. This stance reflects Trump's previous concerns about vaccines, which he has voiced for over a decade, although he oversaw the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines during his first term. Kennedy, known for his skepticism towards vaccines and his advocacy for vaccine safety, has promised to address what he calls the 'corporate capture' of federal health agencies if confirmed. He resigned from Children's Health Defense to focus on his new role. His nomination has sparked both praise and criticism, with some viewing it as a move towards transparency and others fearing it could undermine public health efforts. Kennedy will face confirmation hearings with the Senate Finance Committee.