Full Breakdown
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Snake Incident at a Family Birthday Party
6/18/2026, 6:53:02 AM
The Incident
Kerry Kennedy told CNN she called her brother, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., after a snake appeared in the garden of her daughter’s birthday party. He arrived holding infant son Aidan in one arm and a pillowcase in the other, caught the snake and placed it in the pillowcase while still holding his child. He then showed the reptile to the children, allowing it to bite his hand, and later, at his home, released the same snake into a swimming pool where many children were playing.
Background
Kennedy’s lifelong wildlife interest includes childhood outings with Kerry to catch frogs and snakes. Reported episodes include handling two non-venomous Black Racer snakes on Dr. Mehmet Oz’s patio, a claim he dumped a dead bear in Central Park, and allegations of dissecting a raccoon. These accounts have drawn both admiration for his naturalist pursuits and concern over his safety judgment.
Key Figures
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Kerry Kennedy, Aidan Kennedy, Cheryl Hines, Dr. Mehmet Oz.
Official Statements & Responses
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has not responded.
Criticism & Opposition
Kerry Kennedy asked whether “this is the person you want running the Department of Health and Human Services,” and said his judgment regarding child safety is insufficient. She also reiterated criticism of his anti-vaccine stance and his endorsement of former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election, while endorsing Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The account rests solely on Kerry Kennedy’s recollection; no independent witnesses, police reports, or photographs have been provided. The snake’s exact species, the number of children present, and any medical impact from the bites remain unverified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He rushed over with his infant son, Aidan, in one hand, who was just a few months old,” — Kerry Kennedy
- “And he grabbed this snake and stuffed it into the pillowcase while he was holding his infant son.” — Kerry Kennedy
- “And the snake was just chomping on his hand, and he pulled out the snake to show the kids.” — Kerry Kennedy
- “There were tons of kids in the swimming pool, and he released this snake that had chomped on his hand into the swimming pool.” — Kerry Kennedy
- “lack of judgment when it comes to the safety and care of children.” — Kerry Kennedy
Why It Matters
The story resurfaced as Kennedy leads the Health and Human Services department, prompting debate over his suitability to oversee child-health policies.
What’s Next
No formal investigation has been announced. The incident will likely remain part of ongoing scrutiny of Kennedy’s tenure as HHS Secretary, as his health-policy positions attract media attention.
