1A (dot) Gov: The Government Workers Behind Justice And Intelligence
Jan 9, 2025
Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Dan Diamond, National health reporter for The Washington Post, and Samuel Bagenstas, former general counsel of HHS, dive into the inner workings of the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the profound impact of HHS on American healthcare, potential vaccine policy changes under new leadership, and the looming threat of bird flu. Their insights reveal the tension between political influences and the vital role of career public servants in safeguarding public health.
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HHS's Unseen Impact
- HHS operates largely in the background, ensuring safe food, drugs, and water.
- Its impact is often unnoticed unless something goes wrong.
HHS's Unique Role
- Many HHS programs, especially preventative ones, lack private sector equivalents.
- If defunded, it's unclear who would fill the gap.
RFK Jr.'s HHS Vision
- RFK Jr. aims to shift HHS funding, reduce private industry reliance, and address conflicts of interest.
- He also plans to challenge pharmaceutical influence and advertising practices.