Over 15,000 doctors nationwide signed an open letter urging senators to reject Donald Trump’s nominee for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The physicians expressed their shock, calling Kennedy’s appointment “reckless” and warning it could be “dangerous” for public health.
“This appointment is an affront to the principles of public health, the tireless dedication of medical professionals, and the trust that millions of Americans place in the health care system,” the letter states.
Kennedy, an environmental lawyer, is better known for his controversial stance as a vaccine skeptic. His long-debunked beliefs, such as the claim that vaccines cause autism and that antidepressants are linked to school shootings, have sparked outrage among the medical community.
“RFK Jr. has a well-documented history of spreading dangerous disinformation on vaccines and public health interventions,” the letter asserts, emphasizing the risk to vulnerable populations.
While Kennedy denies being anti-vaccine, he has continued to promote unfounded claims, including conspiracy theories about the COVID-19 vaccine.
“This appointment is a slap in the face to every health care professional who has spent their lives working to protect patients from preventable illnesses and death,” the letter concludes.
This letter is part of a larger campaign led by the Committee to Protect Health Care, urging healthcare professionals to take action to block Kennedy’s confirmation. Kennedy is actively lobbying senators, hoping to gain support for the role, requiring a combination of Democratic opposition and Republican backing for confirmation.
