Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Photo: Scott Eisen / Getty images
More than 75 Nobel Prize winners have sent an open letter to the US Senate expressing strong opposition to the possible appointment of Robert Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary in the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Scientists warn that such a decision poses a risk to public health, AFP reports.
Criticism due to unscientific views
The letter, signed by prize winners in medicine, physics, chemistry and economics, highlights Kennedy’s lack of qualifications and anti-scientific positions. In particular, the signatories include Drew Weissman, winner of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Medicine for the development of mRNA vaccines that have been crucial in the fight against COVID-19.
“The appointment of Robert Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health will pose a serious threat to public health,” the letter’s authors state.
Kennedy, the nephew of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated, had previously spread conspiracy theories about vaccines. In particular, he claimed fictitious links between vaccination and autism, and called for an end to fluoride in drinking water, although this practice is recognised as a significant achievement in the fight against tooth decay.
Political motivation for the appointment
After participating in the presidential campaign, Kennedy endorsed Trump, who offered him the job of heading the Department of Health. However, this appointment still needs to be approved by the Senate, according to the US Constitution.
“In addition to his lack of qualifications or experience in medicine, science, or government, Robert Kennedy opposed many vaccines that have saved lives and protected health, including measles and polio vaccines,” the letter says.
The authors urged senators to vote against Kennedy’s confirmation.
Personnel scandals in the Trump administration
This is not the first scandal surrounding Trump’s appointments. Earlier, he nominated Pete Hagesse, a former military officer and Fox News host who was accused of sexual harassment and alcohol abuse, to head the Pentagon. Also, Matty Gaetz, Trump’s first nominee for the post of Attorney General, was forced to resign due to allegations of having relations with a minor.
Kennedy’s appointment raises concerns about the future of the US healthcare system.
