KFF Health News' 'What the Health?' RFK Jr. Upends Vaccine Policy, After Promising He Wouldn’t
Jun 12, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Anna Edney of Bloomberg News, Sarah Karlin-Smith from The Pink Sheet, Joanne Kenen of Johns Hopkins, and Douglas Holtz-Eakin from the American Action Forum delve into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial firing of the CDC's vaccine advisory committee. They explore the implications for public health and vaccine policy, alongside an open letter of dissent from NIH employees. Additionally, Holtz-Eakin clarifies the complexities and challenges of the Congressional Budget Office, shedding light on its vital role in health policy.
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Kennedy's Vaccine Panel Shakeup
- Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired all 17 members of the CDC Vaccine Advisory Committee, despite promising not to do so.
- He appointed a smaller, less expert group including individuals with anti-vaccine views, impacting vaccine recommendation policies.
HHS Vaccine Policy Shifts
- The HHS canceled a major Moderna contract for a bird flu mRNA vaccine and halted HIV vaccine trials.
- This likely reflects the administration's skepticism about mRNA vaccines and a preference for focusing on cures over prevention.
NIH Staff Protest Administration
- Around 300 NIH employees, including institute directors, sent the Bethesda Declaration protest letter.
- They express deep ethical concerns about policies they feel undermine NIH's mission and harm public health.