The NPR Politics Podcast RFK Jr. Under Fire Following Vaccine Changes And CDC Shakeup
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Sep 9, 2025 
Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR Health Correspondent, dives into the recent controversies surrounding Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., particularly his recent decisions impacting vaccine policy and CDC leadership. Senators from both parties express their discontent over his management style and policies, raising concerns about public trust in health agencies. The discussion also highlights the political implications of vaccine distribution and how polarized opinions affect public health initiatives, alongside the formation of new alliances to combat misinformation.
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Broadshake At HHS Raises Bipartisan Alarm
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has driven sweeping changes at HHS, including major staff cuts and vaccine-policy shifts.
- Senators from both parties raised concerns about departures from scientific consensus and agency upheaval.
Vaccine Policy Shifts Spark Senate Scrutiny
- Kennedy's decisions include firing vaccine advisory panel members and canceling mRNA research funding.
- Those moves prompted senators to ask why policy is departing from medical and scientific experts.
GOP Voices Join Democrats' Concerns
- Republicans also questioned Kennedy, including two GOP physicians worried about vaccine moves.
- The hearing tone shifted to more bipartisan skepticism than in earlier sessions.