RFK Jr.'s Controversial HHS Tenure: Measles Deaths, Autism Remarks, and Major Overhauls

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s tenure as Secretary of Health and Human Services continues to generate controversy as he manages a major measles outbreak in the U.S. According to TIME, the outbreak has infected more than 700 people and resulted in three deaths - two young children and one adult - the first such deaths from the disease in years in the United States.

Kennedy has made contradictory statements about vaccines, both endorsing the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine while also claiming it was "not safety tested," despite decades of scientific consensus on its safety and effectiveness. His vaccine statements have alarmed many public health officials.

Following a new CDC study showing rising autism rates, Kennedy controversially called the increase an "epidemic" and promised new studies on environmental toxins, dismissing scientific evidence about other factors like genetics. At an April 16 press conference, he made remarks about autism that PBS reports sparked outrage, including statements that many autistic children would "never pay taxes," "hold a job," or "use a toilet unassisted."

The HHS Secretary is implementing dramatic changes at the department. He's overseeing a massive reorganization that includes reducing staff from 82,000 to 62,000 and cutting billions in medical research grants. ABC News reports that Kennedy recently announced the reinstatement of some programs and employees after initial cuts, which had terminated approximately 10,000 jobs.

Kennedy has also unveiled what an HHS spokesperson called "a radical departure from past practices" regarding vaccine testing, according to ABC News. Additionally, he's pushing food manufacturers to phase out petroleum-based food dyes and working to close loopholes that allow uninspected ingredients into food.

Several senators have warned Kennedy that HHS cuts could severely impact the Indian Health Service. POLITICO reports that Kennedy is set to appoint a new top HHS spokesman, signaling potential changes in department communications.

The administration's scientific approach is being scrutinized, with doctors and public health specialists telling ABC News they view certain actions as an "attack" on science, including firings and questioning of established research.

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