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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Returns to Children’s Health Defense as HHS Secretary
By Drooid · · How we work
Kennedy’s Return to Children’s Health Defense
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will deliver the keynote address at a Children’s Health Defense (CHD) conference in Washington, D.C. this week. The event, held at the Grand Hyatt Washington, is framed by the nonprofit as a “homecoming” for its founder. It marks Kennedy’s first public appearance on a CHD stage since assuming leadership of HHS.
Prior Leadership and Separation
Kennedy joined the World Mercury Project in 2015, rebranding it as CHD and serving as chair and chief lawyer until December 2024. During that period he earned a six-figure salary and helped file dozens of lawsuits challenging state vaccine mandates. He stepped back from the organization while campaigning for president and severed ties permanently shortly before President Trump’s inauguration, a move he cited during his January 2025 Senate confirmation hearing.
Official Position on Vaccines
During the confirmation hearing, Kennedy told senators he would not undermine confidence in vaccines and affirmed, “I am supportive of vaccines.” He also emphasized that he has “no power” over CHD’s operations. HHS has not commented on the upcoming keynote.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Are you supportive of these onesies?” — Sen. Bernie Sanders