Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation is not good for NH

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation is in contrast to the fact that he is unqualified to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). His lack of experience and extreme views pose a direct threat to our public health. While it is disappointing that the Senate prioritized politics over public interest, I want to thank Senators Shaheen and Hassan for putting New Hampshire first and standing against this nomination.

Kennedy lacks the expertise and credibility to oversee a department that regulates 17% of the U.S. economy and provides health coverage to millions through Medicare, Medicaid, and the ACA. His only leadership experience is running an anti-vaccine advocacy group, Children’s Health Defense, which has fewer than ten staffers—hardly preparation for managing HHS’s 80,000+ employees and its vital public health programs.

Beyond his inexperience, pointed out by Senator Hassan, Kennedy’s radical views on public health would put lives at risk. He has pledged to halt research on infectious diseases and drug development, dismissing them as unnecessary. Under his leadership, we could see a resurgence of deadly diseases like measles and polio, weakened pandemic preparedness, and delayed life-saving treatments for cancer and other illnesses.

The American people deserved an HHS Secretary who believes in science and public health, not conspiracy theories.

JH Simoes, Concord