Top NIH scientist speaks out, says research was ‘censored’ under RFK Jr
Apr 18, 2025
auto_awesome
Dr. Kevin Hall, a veteran nutrition and metabolism scientist, discusses his decision to leave the NIH, citing censorship as a major concern. He raises alarms about the political influences impacting unbiased scientific research, especially under RFK Jr.’s policies. The conversation dives into pressing issues like ultra-processed foods, health policy debates, and the future of health advocacy. Hall highlights how censorship in academia can have devastating effects on public health outcomes, urging for more transparency and integrity in scientific inquiry.
Dr. Kevin Hall highlighted serious concerns about censorship at NIH that impair scientific research on nutritional health and ultra-processed foods.
The podcast discusses the destabilizing impact of Trump's tariffs on small businesses and the challenges they face due to rising costs.
Deep dives
Impacts of Health Policies Under RFK Jr.
The shift in health policy direction under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is posing significant concerns regarding America's healthcare system. Under his proposed leadership with the 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative, there is a focus on alternative approaches to health, including skepticism towards established scientific consensus on vaccines and chronic diseases. This has raised alarms among public health experts who fear that such ideologies could lead to adverse outcomes, especially as the administrative budget for health agencies proposes substantial cuts. Efforts to investigate nutritional health, particularly concerning ultra-processed foods, were initially welcomed but are now seen as jeopardized due to potential censorship and job cuts at relevant agencies.
Censorship in Scientific Research
Dr. Kevin Hall, a prominent NIH scientist, revealed troubling censorship issues within the agency that hinder scientific inquiry into nutritional health. After experiencing denial in presenting research on ultra-processed foods due to agency concerns, Hall publicly expressed his doubts regarding NIH's ability to uphold unbiased research. Specific findings regarding the relationship between ultra-processed foods and their effects on health have been stifled, leading to Hall's decision to retire early from NIH. These actions represent a broader issue of scientific freedom, wherein political narratives overrule empirical evidence.
Economic Consequences of Trump's Policies
Donald Trump's economic policies, particularly concerning tariffs, are creating profound anxieties among small business owners and the market at large. Business owners are facing existential threats as tariffs imposed by the administration lead to skyrocketing costs and result in chaos for small retailers dependent on affordable inventory. The legal grounds for these tariffs have been challenged, as governors and state officials argue that such unilateral actions exceed Trump's constitutional authority. As businesses rally against the damaging financial impacts, the potential fallout may destabilize the American market significantly.
Due Process and Immigration Challenges
The ongoing immigration policies advocated by Trump are sparking debates around due process and the treatment of residents and undocumented individuals. Recent court rulings emphasize the necessity for legal procedures to be upheld, particularly for residents facing deportation without a fair judicial process. The case of Kilmar Obrego Garcia illustrates a broader crisis where individuals are subjected to severe consequences without adequate legal representation or clarity regarding accusations. This brings to light a critical conversation about maintaining democratic principles in governance amid actions that seem to circumvent foundational legal rights.
Guests: Dr. Kevin Hall, Asha Rangappa, Rob Bonta, Patrick Gaspard, Waleed Shahid
New concern over the man who says he's “Making America Healthy Again.” Tonight: a top NIH official—who had cheered the MAHA movement—is suddenly leaving, citing censorship under RFK Jr. Then, Trump's latest attempt to keep a Maryland father in a foreign prison: smacked down again in court. And as Trump's tariffs continue to roil markets, new alarm over the president's targeting of the Federal Reserve.
Want more of Chris? Download and subscribe to his podcast, “Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes podcast” wherever you get your podcasts.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
