The MeidasTouch Podcast Former Health Secretary Becerra on RFK Hearing and CA Gov Race
Sep 7, 2025
Xavier Becerra, former Health and Human Services Secretary under Biden and current gubernatorial candidate for California, dives into pressing issues in public health and politics. He discusses the chaotic congressional hearing on vaccine policies and the urgent need for transparent health communication. Becerra emphasizes the importance of unbiased advisory committees to bolster vaccine trust. He also navigates California's complex political landscape, underlining the challenges from Trump's policies and advocating for experienced leadership to address economic struggles, especially in agriculture.
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Political Loyalty Overcuts Oversight
- Xavier Becerra says Republican senators avoided holding RFK Jr. accountable despite dangerous testimony.
- He warns political loyalty is displacing oversight at HHS, risking public health.
Dismantling CDC Risks Lives
- Becerra describes the hearing as a dismantling of CDC leadership before senators' eyes.
- He warns this erosion of institutions will lead to preventable deaths.
Keep Experts In Charge During Crises
- Preserve independent scientific leadership and expertise at CDC and FDA to manage crises.
- Avoid replacing experts with political appointees when public health is at stake.
