Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. exchange handshakes at a campaign rally held at the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia, on October 23, 2024. – AFP photo
On Monday, 77 Nobel laureates sent an open letter to the US Senate, opposing the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). They cited his 'lack of qualifications' and anti-vaccine stance. 'Given his record, appointing Mr. Kennedy to lead DHHS would jeopardize public health,' the letter concludes, signed by 77 Nobel Prize winners in medicine, chemistry, physics, and economics.
Among the signatories is Drew Weissman, who won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Medicine for his work on mRNA vaccines, a significant breakthrough in combating Covid-19. Kennedy, the nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy, launched his own presidential campaign earlier this year before endorsing Trump. In response, Trump nominated him to oversee the health and medical division of the executive branch, a decision requiring Senate approval as per the Constitution.
An environmental lawyer with no medical background, Kennedy has long promoted conspiracy theories linking vaccines to autism and recently spread misinformation about Covid-19 vaccines. He has stated that if confirmed, he would work to remove fluoride from US tap water, despite its addition being a significant victory in combating tooth decay-causing bacteria.
'In addition to his lack of credentials or relevant experience in medicine, science, public health, or administration,' the letter states, 'Mr. Kennedy has opposed many health-protecting and life-saving vaccines, such as those preventing measles and polio.' 'We strongly urge you to vote against his confirmation,' the letter concludes.
Kennedy is not the only controversial Trump cabinet nominee. Notable examples include Pete Hegseth, a Fox News anchor nominated to lead the Department of Defense, whose nomination was derailed by sexual assault allegations and rumors of excessive drinking. Additionally, Trump's initial choice for Attorney General, former US Congressman Matt Gaetz, withdrew after scrutiny over alleged sexual relations with a minor.
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