Government publications or official statements from the Department of Health and Human Services

Trump Appoints RFK Jr. as HHS Secretary, Grants Authority to 'Go Wild' on Health Agencies

Nov 17, 2024, 01:13 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), granting him full authority to "go wild" on health agencies in an effort to restore "gold-standard scientific research." Kennedy, who has proclaimed that "we're now the unhealthiest country in the world," aims to overhaul U.S. food policies by targeting ultra-processed foods, pesticides, and additives he believes are contributing to a national health crisis. Kennedy has expressed a desire to "bring back tallow" in cooking practices and has called for the removal of processed foods from school lunches. Despite his criticism of unhealthy eating habits, Kennedy was recently photographed eating McDonald's on Trump's plane. He declared he "cannot wait to eat McDonald's again," highlighting his intent to reform food standards. Former FDA Associate Commissioner Peter Pitts welcomed Kennedy's appointment, stating that "giving the status quo a swift kick in the [expletive] is a good thing." However, opinions on Kennedy's qualifications remain divided. Some experts question his approach to scientific inquiry, labeling him an activist rather than a scientist, and express concerns over his views on vaccines and processed foods. Health professionals and commentators are debating Kennedy's ability to address public health challenges, including the obesity epidemic and restoring trust in agencies like the CDC, FDA, and NIH. As HHS Secretary, Kennedy's impact on nutrition and food policies will be closely watched.