President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services, with a commitment to addressing what he calls the “chronic disease epidemic.”
Known for his skepticism about vaccines, Kennedy, 70, has been a strong supporter of Trump since ending his independent presidential bid in August.
Trump had hinted that he would allow Kennedy to spearhead public health reforms if he won the election.
Despite his opposition to routine childhood vaccinations, Kennedy reassured the public shortly after Trump’s victory that he would not attempt to eliminate vaccines.
“If vaccines are working for somebody, I’m not going to take them away. People ought to have choice, and that choice ought to be informed by the best information,” he told NBC News on Nov. 6, adding that he would prioritize transparency and rigorous scientific review to allow people to make their own health decisions.
Kennedy, known for other controversial views, has also questioned the safety of fluoride in water supplies, although this area is primarily under state and local control, limiting his influence.
Reactions to the nomination have been polarizing. A Senate Republican source expressed doubt about Kennedy’s chances of Senate confirmation, remarking,