Full Breakdown
Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson Endorses Controversial Health Theory
12/13/2025, 10:20:55 PM
Promotion of Unfounded Medical Claims
Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson has endorsed a new book titled *The War on Chlorine Dioxide: The Medicine that Could End Medicine* by Dr. Pierre Kory, which promotes the use of chlorine dioxide as a treatment for various ailments, including cancer, autism, and COVID-19. Chlorine dioxide is primarily known as a disinfectant, commonly used in hospitals and laboratories, but has no recognized medical applications for human treatment. Johnson's endorsement has drawn significant criticism from the medical community, with experts labeling the claims as unfounded and dangerous.
Background on Dr. Pierre Kory
Dr. Pierre Kory, who previously lost his board certifications for promoting ivermectin as a treatment for long COVID, is the central figure behind the book. Kory asserts that there is a conspiracy among global public health officials, the pharmaceutical industry, and the media to suppress information regarding chlorine dioxide's purported benefits. Johnson has previously relied on Kory for medical advice, having invited him to testify before the Senate on multiple occasions, including instances where Kory supported the use of ivermectin for COVID-19, a claim that has been widely discredited.
Medical Community's Response
The endorsement has sparked backlash from health professionals. Dr. Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University’s Office for Science and Society, criticized the claims, stating, “It is all lunacy. Absolutely, it’s 100 percent nonsense.” Schwarcz emphasized that chlorine dioxide, particularly at high concentrations, is toxic and not a cure for any medical condition. The FDA has also issued warnings against the use of ivermectin for COVID-19, stating that it has not been authorized for such purposes.
Official Statements & Responses
Senator Johnson confirmed his endorsement of Kory's book, stating, “After reading the entire book, yes I provided and approved that blurb.” He characterized the book as “a gripping tale of corruption and courage that will open eyes and prompt serious questions.” However, this endorsement aligns with Johnson's history of promoting controversial health theories, including unfounded claims about COVID-19 vaccines leading to athlete deaths.
Criticism & Opposition
Johnson's actions have been met with significant criticism, particularly from those who argue that promoting such unverified treatments poses a risk to public health. Critics highlight that misinformation regarding COVID-19 and its treatments can lead to harmful consequences for individuals seeking legitimate medical care.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Johnson's endorsement has garnered attention, there is a notable absence of credible scientific evidence supporting Kory's claims about chlorine dioxide. The medical community remains largely unified in its rejection of these assertions, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is all lunacy. Absolutely, it’s 100 percent nonsense,” — Dr. Joe Schwarcz, Director, McGill University’s Office for Science and Society
- “After reading the entire book, yes I provided and approved that blurb,” — Senator Ron Johnson
Senator Ron Johnson's endorsement of Dr. Pierre Kory's controversial book raises significant concerns about the spread of misinformation in health care, particularly in the context of ongoing public health challenges.
