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

McConnell Warns RFK Jr. Over Polio Vaccine Skepticism Amid Senate Confirmation

Dec 16, 2024, 01:32 AM

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has issued a warning to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, following reports that one of Kennedy's advisers, Aaron Siri, petitioned the FDA to revoke its approval of the polio vaccine. McConnell, a polio survivor himself, emphasized the dangers of undermining public confidence in vaccines, which have saved millions of lives. Kennedy, known for his skepticism towards vaccines, has been meeting with senators, including Sen. John Thune, to secure support for his Senate confirmation. His stance on vaccines, including questioning their safety and efficacy, has raised concerns among public health experts and senators alike. Over 75 Nobel Prize winners have urged senators to block his nomination, citing his lack of credentials in medicine, science, and public health. Kennedy has stated he does not wish to ban vaccines but seeks further study on their safety. His nomination has sparked a debate on vaccine policy, with critics arguing that his views could jeopardize public health initiatives. Additionally, Kennedy has received support from some Democrats like Sen. Cory Booker for his plans to address America's obesity crisis and food safety.