Trump Picks Vaccine Critic RFK Jr. as HHS Secretary; Proposes Cane Sugar for Coke, Fluoride Removal

Nov 18, 2024, 05:57 PM

President-elect Donald J. Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, a decision that has sparked widespread concern among public health experts and organizations. Kennedy, a longtime critic of vaccines and promoter of unproven health claims, is known for his controversial views on immunizations, processed foods, and environmental toxins. Notably, he has suggested requiring Coca-Cola to replace high-fructose corn syrup with cane sugar and advocates for the removal of fluoride from U.S. drinking water. His potential appointment has led to fears that he could undermine vaccination programs, alter nutritional guidelines, and disrupt the nation's public health policies. Pharmaceutical stocks, including Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, have declined amid concerns over his anti-Ozempic stance and potential impact on obesity drug markets. Meanwhile, dental supply stocks have risen on speculation about changes to fluoride policies. Former health officials, such as ex-HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, have voiced strong opposition to the nomination, calling it a "life or death" decision that could have devastating consequences for American health. Kennedy's nonprofit organization, Children's Health Defense, has been involved in vaccine lawsuits against federal health agencies he would oversee.