Do NOT confirm Kennedy to HHS

In the strongest terms, I urge you to reject the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services. Testimony and evidence have revealed that Mr. Kennedy has pathological tendencies and is not trustworthy. Whether it is cruelty to animals, cheating on his spouse, his various addictions, or lying about his public statements, he is clearly unqualified for a position of public trust. What is most concerning is his public pronouncements on public health matters, especially concerning vaccines, about which he has ABSOLUTELY NO scientific or medical training and which may well be motivated simply by his ability to make money from those who believe his statements. Thousands of medical professionals around the country have voiced their concerns and opposition to his appointment. Many hundreds of thousands of other medical professionals worldwide are undoubtedly shocked that he would be considered for such a position -- he would make the USA (more) of a laughingstock if appointed. Our national vaccination history, including against smallpox, polio, and measles, has been exemplary. We have helped lead the way in defeating disease that has killed and crippled millions over the years. As a child, I remember meeting people with withered limbs as a result of polio. I have relatives with lifelong impairments -- including deafness -- from measles. One only needs to visit a cemetery with pre-1950s graves to see the many headstones of children and young adults dead from what are now preventable diseases to underscore the efficacy of childhood immunizations.

The tragic outbreak of measles in Samoa in 2019 that resulted in over 80 deaths due to Mr. Kennedy's misrepresentations is a harbinger of what might occur in the USA if he is allowed to set health policies at HHS. Confirming Mr. Kennedy would be a direct insult to the medical community, to your constituents, and to the people of the United States. If he is confirmed, every Senator who votes in favor will bear the blame for those who die because of the policies he will try to institute. Do NOT vote to confirm Robert Kennedy, Jr. as Secretary of HHS!