RFK Jr. Accused of Jeopardizing Child Vaccine Access, Undermining CDC Science

Two former high-ranking officials at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have leveled serious accusations against Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alleging his actions are hobbling the nation’s ability to combat disease outbreaks and could restrict children’s access to vital vaccines.

In recent Senate testimony, Susan Monarez, a CDC director appointed and then fired by Kennedy, detailed demands that she pre-approve advisory committee recommendations irrespective of scientific evidence and dismiss career officials responsible for vaccine policy. Monarez testified that Kennedy’s demands, including changing the childhood vaccine schedule starting in September with alleged White House backing, posed a “real risk” to public health by potentially weakening vaccine protections without rigorous scientific review.

Debra Houry, who served as the CDC’s chief medical officer, also testified, stating she resigned because CDC leaders were reduced to “rubber stamps,” supporting policies not grounded in science. Houry accused Kennedy of censoring CDC science, politicizing its processes, and stripping leaders of independence, highlighting instances like Kennedy changing COVID vaccine guidance via social media without scientific justification.

Concerns are mounting over the legitimacy of the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee (ACIP), which Kennedy has reportedly replaced with handpicked advisers. Senator Bill Cassidy, chair of the committee, has called for an indefinite postponement of an upcoming ACIP meeting where a vote on the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns is expected. Both former officials warned of devastating consequences, including the return of preventable diseases, citing the largest measles outbreak in over 30 years and the trauma faced by CDC staff amidst unprecedented changes and threats.

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