Why did Thomas Corry resign from his position as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at HHS?

Thomas Corry resigned due to disagreements with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over the management of the measles outbreak in Texas and broader departmental issues.

How has Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. responded to the measles outbreak in Texas?

Initially, Kennedy downplayed the outbreak, stating that measles outbreaks were not unusual. Later, he acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and expressed support for the measles vaccine, though he emphasized the decision to vaccinate as a personal choice.

What are the implications of Corry's resignation for HHS leadership during public health crises?

Corry's resignation raises concerns about leadership stability and effectiveness at HHS during critical health crises, potentially impacting the department's ability to manage outbreaks effectively.

How does this situation reflect broader changes within the HHS under the current administration?

The resignation and broader management issues reflect significant changes and challenges within HHS, including firings and restructuring efforts under the current administration, which may impact the department's operational capacity.

3 sources·Health

US HHS Spokesman Resigns Amid Measles Outbreak Controversy

Tom Corry stepped down from his role as assistant secretary of public affairs at HHS just two weeks after his appointment, amid management clashes and a measles outbreak.

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Kennedy faced backlash last week after saying that a measles outbreak in Texas was "not unusual," despite a child dying of the illness—the first U.S. death from measles in a decade.
Who is Thomas Corry? Top RFK Jr. spokesman quits HHS
Newsweek·20d
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Corry had become increasingly uneasy with Kennedy’s “muted response” to the intensifying outbreak of measles in Texas, where more than 140 people have become infected since January.
US health official quits after reported clashes with RFK Jr over measles
The Guardian·21d
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Updated: Mar 3rd, 2025, 9:13 PM ET

Summary

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Thomas Corry, assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services, resigned just two weeks after his appointment. His departure comes amid growing tensions with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding the management of a measles outbreak in Texas, where over 140 cases have been reported since January, including a fatality. Corry's resignation follows criticism of Kennedy's initial downplaying of the outbreak, although Kennedy later acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. Corry’s abrupt exit raises concerns regarding leadership at HHS during public health crises.

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Thomas Corry resigned as a spokesperson for the HHS after conflicts with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding the management of a measles outbreak in Texas.
The resignation follows critical remarks made by Kennedy about the outbreak, including a controversial statement that it was not unusual despite a child's death from the disease.
After initially downplaying the situation, Kennedy later reversed his stance and endorsed vaccinations in an opinion piece, highlighting a shift in messaging.

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