Official announcements from the Department of Health and Human Services

Nobel Laureates Urge Senate to Reject RFK Jr.'s Nomination Amid Vaccine Controversy

Dec 13, 2024, 02:25 PM

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, has drawn significant opposition from over 75 Nobel laureates who signed a letter urging senators to reject his confirmation. Critics cite Kennedy's controversial views on vaccines, including his support for the debunked theory linking vaccines to autism. Despite his assurances that he would not revoke vaccine approvals, Kennedy's past actions and associations raise concerns about his potential influence on vaccine policy. His lawyer, Aaron Siri, has notably petitioned the FDA to revoke the approval of the polio vaccine, a move that public health experts warn could lead to outbreaks of the disease. Kennedy's involvement in questioning candidates for top health positions alongside Siri suggests a focus on scrutinizing vaccine policies. Furthermore, Trump has indicated a review into the potential link between childhood vaccines and autism, echoing Kennedy's long-held views. This stance has ignited a debate on vaccine safety, efficacy, and public health policy, with implications for how vaccines are regulated and perceived in the U.S. The FDA has not yet responded to the petition, and the content of the Nobel Laureates' letter remains undisclosed.