On November 14, President-elect Donald Trump announced Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as his nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).
If confirmed, Kennedy will lead major health agencies, including the CDC and FDA, with a focus on tackling America’s chronic disease crisis, reducing corporate influence, and strengthening protections in health and food safety.
Trump shared the announcement on social media, stating that “for too long, Americans have been crushed by the industrial food complex and drug companies.” He noted that Kennedy would help protect the public from harmful substances and misinformation.
Kennedy, in turn, thanked Trump, pledging to “clean up corruption, stop the revolving door between industry and government, and return our health agencies to gold-standard, evidence-based science.”
Kennedy, known for challenging mainstream health practices, has criticized regulatory agencies for prioritizing corporate profits over public health. His stance is expected to bring major changes, particularly with the FDA, which he claims has suppressed alternative health solutions that could benefit Americans.
In recent weeks, Kennedy stated that he would like pharmaceutical advertising to be banned on television and believes that the FDA’s nutrition departments need an overhaul to better protect children’s health.
Trump’s choice of Kennedy has already caused stock fluctuations in the pharmaceutical industry, with companies like Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax seeing declines after the announcement.
The nomination has sparked reactions from critics, with the Democratic National Committee labeling Kennedy’s views as “anti-science,” though his supporters argue he is committed to bringing much-needed transparency and reform.
As HHS Secretary, Kennedy’s focus would extend to regulatory practices across food and drug industries, aiming to make healthier options available to Americans and reduce harmful additives in everyday products.
Kennedy has expressed a particular interest in eliminating artificial chemicals in foods and promoting natural health solutions that are often overshadowed by pharmaceutical products.
Kennedy, the founder of Children’s Health Defense, has previously advocated for stricter standards to reduce toxic exposure for children.
He has promised that his leadership at HHS would restore public health agencies to their original mission of improving Americans’ health rather than advancing corporate agendas. His commitment to combating chronic disease and creating healthier environments aligns with Trump’s vision for a healthier America.
With a projected Republican majority in the Senate, Kennedy’s nomination is expected to receive confirmation.
Trump’s choice underscores a significant policy shift, prioritizing consumer health and industry accountability, and bringing a new direction to public health in America.