RFK Jr. Under Fire for Vaccine Skepticism and Major HHS Budget Cuts
Health Secretary RFK Jr. testifies before Congress, stating his views on vaccines are irrelevant while defending significant cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services.
RFK Jr. defends steep budget cuts
World News Group
Summary
In recent congressional hearings, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his controversial budget cuts and vaccine skepticism, stating he doesn't believe his medical opinions should be trusted, prompting backlash from lawmakers and health experts. He faced tough questioning about proposed HHS budget reductions, including a 26% funding cut, resulting in thousands of job losses across health agencies. Kennedy insists the cuts are necessary for efficiency despite Democrats arguing they undermine vital health services like disease prevention and COVID response. His remarks about vaccination, notably on measles, have drawn criticism for potentially fueling public skepticism about vaccines.
Articles (7)
- Kennedy's skepticism towards vaccines undermines public trust and health strategy; he has been criticized for his previous strong anti-vaccine stance and current evasiveness on vaccine recommendations.
- The proposed budget cuts drastically affect the NIH and CDC, where many believe crucial public health programs are being dismantled under the guise of efficiency.
- Critics argue Kennedy's testimony lacks accountability and fails to provide assurance that essential health services and research will continue despite significant workforce reductions.
MSNBC·17d· "…Kennedy's refusal to offer any guidance on them reduces the credibility of the government as an authority on vaccines, and encourages a mode of conspiracy-fueled health libertarianism at odds with the premise of public health thinking."
Boston Globe·17d· "…Kennedy’s assertion that he has “not fired any working scientists” flies in the face of reality."
IFL Science·17d· "…Kennedy’s opinion on vaccines or other medical advice is unfortunately not irrelevant."