Opinion: RFK Jr. flunks test to protect nation’s health

Published 9:46 am Monday, January 6, 2025

Hearings for President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet nominees are imminent. Members of the U.S. Senate will decide if candidates are qualified, including whether they have the character to serve.

As nurses, we are particularly alarmed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK) past, given that the Health and Human Services secretary will oversee the health of the entire nation.

Kennedy readily admitted to using heroin while studying during his collegiate years at Harvard University. Massachusetts law explicitly states that it is illegal to be present in a location where heroin is stored or to associate with someone who possesses heroin. USA Today reported that Kennedy didn’t deny an assault allegation with his family’s 23-year-old nanny. The Associated Press verified Kennedy left a dead bear in Central Park as a prank. Kennedy now claims “he won’t take away anyone’s vaccines.” This is disingenuous because RFK has a long record of promoting anti-vaccine viewpoints through his own organization, the Children’s Health Defense.

Clearly, Mr. Kennedy does not meet the rigorous standards to lead HHS, a position that demands accountability, evidence-based knowledge and a commitment to public health and safety. Yet senators are being asked to consider his nomination. This is not only illogical; it’s dangerous. The individual responsible for protecting the lives of millions must embody the highest standards of integrity and honesty. Anything less puts our health at serious risk.