Story perspectives

Trump Names Anti-Vaccine RFK Jr. HHS Secretary

5/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of Department of Health and Human Services.
Critics have attacked Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for questioning vaccine safety and water fluoridation.
Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-California) accused Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of halting a pro-vaccine messaging campaign while spending taxpayer money on celebrity workout sessions.
Arnold Schwarzenegger said he respects Robert F. Kennedy Jr. personally despite policy disagreements.

History

Historical Context

The United States has traditionally appointed career scientists to senior health posts, exemplified by Dr. Michael Morens. After receiving his M.D. in 1973, he directed WHO-and NIH-funded dengue work at the University of Hawai‘i and chaired the American Committee on Arthropod-Borne & Zoonotic Viruses (1999-2001). His 2008-2009 presidency of the American Epidemiological Society and federal service medals underscore a legacy of leadership influencing vaccine policy.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of Department of Health and Human Services.
Critics have attacked Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for questioning vaccine safety and water fluoridation.
Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-California) accused Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of halting a pro-vaccine messaging campaign while spending taxpayer money on celebrity workout sessions.
Arnold Schwarzenegger said he respects Robert F. Kennedy Jr. personally despite policy disagreements.

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