Democrats Strategize Against Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Ahead of Midterms

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Democrats are focusing their efforts on framing Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a liability for the Republican Party. Kennedy's controversial stance on vaccines and health policies has become a focal point for Democratic candidates aiming to sway voters and capitalize on his polarizing reputation.

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Since taking office in February 2025, Kennedy has implemented several contentious policies, including significant staff reductions at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and controversial public health messaging. His actions have coincided with outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, which have raised concerns among public health advocates. Polling data indicates that nearly 60% of Americans disapprove of Kennedy's record as health secretary, with a notable distrust among parents regarding his vaccine guidance.

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Democratic candidates across the country are leveraging Kennedy's unpopularity to bolster their campaigns. For instance, Matt Klein, a Democratic candidate in Minnesota, has publicly criticized Kennedy's policies, linking them to rising disease outbreaks. Similarly, Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez and Ohio's Amy Acton have expressed concerns about the implications of Kennedy's health decisions on public access to vaccines.

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Democrats are adopting a dual strategy: some candidates are directly attacking Kennedy's vaccine views, while others prefer to emphasize broader public health issues without naming him. Thomas Fisher, a Democratic primary candidate in Illinois, stated, “These issues are bigger than politics, and bigger than one individual,” highlighting a cautious approach to avoid alienating Kennedy's supporters. Meanwhile, House Majority Forward is considering ads that connect vulnerable Republicans to Kennedy's policies, framing them as detrimental to healthcare costs.

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Despite the Democratic strategy, some within the party caution against overly aggressive tactics that could alienate Kennedy's base. CJ Warnke, a spokesperson for House Majority Forward, noted the need to focus on issues voters care about rather than directly litigating Kennedy's policies. Additionally, some of Kennedy's supporters have voiced frustrations over perceived betrayals by Trump administration aides, suggesting a rift within the MAHA movement.

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While many Democrats view Kennedy as a liability, some Republicans, including Kentucky's Nate Morris, have embraced his agenda, aligning themselves with his health initiatives. This divergence highlights the complexity of Kennedy's influence on both parties as they prepare for the midterms.

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• “With RFK Jr. in office, we’ve had, in Minnesota this year,over 20 cases of measles, a disease that should have been eradicated a generation ago, and we see misinformation about our health at every level, including on Tylenol and pregnancy,” — Matt Klein, Democratic Candidate

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• “I do think you could see a lot of messaging next year, depending on the district, along the lines of, ‘RFK Jr., Trump, and Republicans are raising your health care prices,’” — CJ Warnke, House Majority Forward

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As the midterms draw closer, the Democratic strategy surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will likely evolve, reflecting the ongoing dynamics of public opinion and electoral strategy.

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