1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

As alarming details come to light surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s distressing record of promoting anti-vaccine misinformation and conspiracy theories, it is imperative that we reject his nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services. This position demands proven expertise in public health and an unwavering commitment to scientific evidence, qualities that Kennedy tragically lacks. His irresponsible actions, such as advising against measles vaccination in Samoa, directly contributed to a devastating outbreak that claimed over 80 lives, mostly innocent children. This preventable tragedy alone should disqualify him from overseeing the nation's public health policies. Furthermore, his reckless spread of misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines undoubtedly prolonged the pandemic and led to thousands of avoidable deaths among the unvaccinated. Kennedy's blatant disregard for established science extends beyond vaccines, as he has also promoted the consumption of raw milk despite clear FDA warnings about its risks, and alarmingly, questioned the link between HIV and AIDS. Entrusting him with leadership over vital health agencies would be an unforgivable gamble with American lives. We cannot afford to jeopardize public health by placing someone so transparently unqualified and detached from scientific consensus in this critical role. Kennedy's confirmation would undermine faith in our institutions and endanger the well-being of all Americans. I urge you to prioritize health over ideology by rejecting this misguided nomination and upholding our nation's commitment to evidence-based policymaking.