Kennedy Jr. Tapped for Top Health Post as Misinformation Looms

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental activist known for spreading vaccine misinformation, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Despite controversy surrounding his views, Kennedy plans to address health crises, focusing on environmental factors and challenging existing health policies.

In a surprising move, President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Known as an environmental activist, Kennedy has been engaged in controversy for promoting misinformation on vaccines, making his nomination contentious within health circles.

Trump lauded Kennedy's commitment to addressing the "chronic disease epidemic," highlighting his focus on reducing harmful chemicals within food and the environment. Kennedy's responsibilities will include overseeing the FDA and Medicare programs, which collectively manage a quarter of the federal budget.

Drew Altman of KFF noted Kennedy's lack of involvement with core programs like Medicaid, raising questions about his suitability for the role amid his unorthodox views on health policy and reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)