Anti-Health and Human Services Secretary must go
Despite repeated warnings about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s well-documented record of nonscientific conspiracy-driven anti-vaccine views, he was Senate confirmed as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Since his appointment, scientific experience and expertise have been rejected. Research and innovation have been thwarted. Advisory boards have been decimated. Controversial, nonscientific conspiracy theorists have been installed. Misinformation and disinformation surrounding vaccines and their effectiveness have jeopardized established standardized practices. Access to and availability of medical treatments have been curtailed. At a recent Senate hearing, Kennedy displayed a blatant disregard for both Republican and Democratic senators’ attempt to carry out oversight duties. His responses were dishonest, argumentative and disrespectful — lacking any accountability for his actions.
Efforts to undermine school age vaccination requirements have increased at an alarming rate. As a result, Massachusetts along with neighboring states Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York are in the process of forming a Regional Health Alliance to mitigate anticipated damage to citizens impacted by these ill-advised, ill-conceived policies. It is noteworthy that Governor Ayotte has decided not to join this alliance. When questioned about her position, she argued that “Medical care should not be politicized,” an ironic stance given that Kennedy has in fact politicized medical care at his Department of Health and Human Services
An environment that weakens our population’s health and overall well-being does not foster a strong nation. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s resignation and removal from office cannot come soon enough.