The measles outbreak in West Texas has become a stark reminder of the critical importance of evidence-based public health leadership. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who promised to restore science-driven policies, has instead ushered in a wave of controversial decisions that have weakened the nation’s public health infrastructure. From dismantling key agencies like the CDC and NIH to promoting unproven therapies, Kennedy’s approach has sparked widespread concern among health experts and advocates. This Op-Ed by Dr. Timothy Holtz and Teri Mills delves into the consequences of these actions and their impact on the lives of Americans.
Kennedy’s tenure began amidst the worst measles outbreak in decades, with over 600 reported cases across 22 jurisdictions. Tragically, three lives have already been lost, including two children. Rather than using his platform to promote the proven measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine—one of the safest and most effective tools against measles—Kennedy has instead endorsed unorthodox treatments like cod liver oil and vitamin A supplementation, which lack scientific backing. His failure to launch a national vaccination campaign has fueled vaccine hesitancy, leaving communities vulnerable to preventable illnesses and deaths. The ripple effects of his policies are deeply concerning, as they undermine decades of progress in disease prevention.
This Op-Ed challenges readers to reflect on the broader implications of Kennedy’s leadership at HHS. By dismissing established science and cutting essential public health programs, he risks pushing America toward a full-blown epidemic. The authors argue that safeguarding public health requires investing in robust systems, empowering experts, and prioritizing evidence-based solutions—not dismantling them. As the nation grapples with this crisis, it is imperative to hold leaders accountable for decisions that directly impact lives and to advocate for policies rooted in science and reason.
Newsweek: Potentially Fatal Start to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Leadership at HHS | Opinion
Published Apr 08, 2025 at 5:38 AM EDT
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Well I’ve sure been reading a lot but not commenting enough……we’ve all got so many pans in the damned fire! Anyow, great job on this and all of the preceding op eds! To you Robin, I will say, and I know I am not alone here, thank you thank you thank you for continuing to write, continuing to educate us and continuing to shine light on critical issues.
I appreciate you Judy and am glad to see you “back.”