Washington, DC—The National Health Law Program is gravely concerned by Robert Kennedy Jr.’s selection to lead the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the second Trump administration.
“We are appalled and disgusted by this nomination. Beyond Robert Kennedy Jr.’s anti-science views and harmful campaign against vaccines, he has no experience running an agency like HHS. Nominating someone so unqualified to oversee an agency responsible for the health of millions, including the most underserved populations, is absurd,” says Sarah Somers, Legal Director at the National Health Law Program. “As advocates for the health rights of low-income people, we are particularly concerned about how Kennedy, if confirmed, could impact Medicaid, which is a lifeline for nearly one in five people in the United States. It provides essential health care coverage for millions of low-income families, children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Managing such a vast and critical program is not a job for a novice. Sadly, it seems that the intent is to shock and disrupt, which can only jeopardize the health of our nation.”
Career civil servants at HHS dedicate their lives to protecting and improving the health and well-being of the American people.
“Career civil servants at HHS dedicate their lives to protecting and improving the health and well-being of the American people. Their deep expertise and commitment to the public good are essential for a healthy nation. HHS plays a critical role in regulating the food and medicine people rely on daily, determining Medicare and Medicaid coverage and services, safeguarding against infectious diseases, and conducting billions of dollars in medical research into conditions like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s,” says Elizabeth G. Taylor, Executive Director of NHeLP. “HHS needs a leader who brings the same expertise and commitment to the public good we count on from career staff. This nomination makes a mockery of these dedicated professionals and the mission of HHS.”
