Official announcement from the U.S. Senate or credible news outlets

Trump Nominates RFK Jr. for HHS Secretary, Plans Autism-Vaccine Investigation

Dec 13, 2024, 12:04 AM

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), signaling a potential shift in U.S. health policy. Kennedy, known for his skepticism of vaccines and his advocacy for vaccine safety, has been vocal about his intention to investigate the potential link between childhood vaccines and autism. Trump has expressed openness to this investigation, stating that the rise in autism cases warrants a 'big discussion' and that he would consider restricting some vaccines if Kennedy finds them 'dangerous.' Kennedy's nomination has sparked a range of reactions, with some Republicans praising the move while critics, including Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) and Peter G. Lurie of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, oppose it due to Kennedy's views on vaccines and his promotion of conspiracy theories. Kennedy's plans include revamping the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to focus on the causes of chronic diseases like autism and autoimmune disorders, rather than solely on drug development. He resigned from his position at Children's Health Defense on December 4, 2024, to focus on his new role. He will face Senate confirmation hearings, led by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), where his stance on vaccine safety and his use of testosterone as part of an anti-aging regimen will likely be scrutinized.