Dr. Scott Gottlieb, the former commissioner of the FDA, expressed concerns about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s potential impact as Secretary of Health and Human Services under President-elect Donald Trump. Gottlieb warned that Kennedy’s history of vaccine skepticism could lead to a decrease in vaccination rates, potentially resulting in large measles outbreaks and increased deaths. Kennedy has promoted false claims linking vaccines to autism, which have been debunked by the CDC. Additionally, Kennedy has cast doubt on the efficacy of Covid vaccines. Gottlieb also mentioned that Kennedy’s controversial views on abortion and food prices could make him a contentious nominee to be confirmed by Republican senators. He emphasized that Kennedy may push for significant policy changes if he assumes the role, based on statements made by his advisor Del Bigtree. Gottlieb expressed confidence that Trump does not share Kennedy’s beliefs on vaccines, based on previous conversations with the president. The Trump transition team did not immediately respond to Gottlieb’s comments. Gottlieb stressed the potential negative impact Kennedy’s vaccination views could have on public health.
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