Who’s Running America… Trump’s Health Secretary (RFK Jr)

18 snips

Mar 2, 2025

Guest

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In this captivating discussion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new Secretary of Health and Human Services and a member of the storied Kennedy family, shares his unexpected journey from Democrat to Trump appointee. Joined by Sheryl Gay Stolberg from the New York Times and Clare Malone of The New Yorker, they delve into the complexities of Kennedy's views on health and vaccines, highlighting his aim to tackle America's chronic disease epidemic. The conversation also touches on the impact of personal tragedy on conspiracy beliefs and the political rift within his own family.

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ANECDOTE

RFK Jr.'s Childhood

RFK Jr. grew up in a powerful family environment, steeped in politics from a young age.
His childhood home, Hickory Hill, was a hub for the Kennedy White House, constantly filled with influential figures.

INSIGHT

Family Tragedies and Conspiracy

RFK Jr.'s family tragedies, including the assassinations of JFK and RFK Sr., likely shaped his conspiratorial worldview.
He believes the CIA was involved in both deaths, adding another layer to his distrust of authority.

INSIGHT

Rebellion Against the Elite

RFK Jr.'s background, steeped in political power and elite circles, contrasts sharply with his distrust of authority.
This tension is central to his persona and political journey.

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Our latest mini series is here and this time we're profiling some of the key players in Donald Trump's presidency, who are now running America.

We’re ending the series with Robert F Kennedy Jr., the new Secretary of Health and Human Services. Kennedy has been tasked with making America healthy again - an appointment which came as a surprise to some, given that he’s been accused of supporting the anti-vaccination movement and spreading misinformation.

Spurning a democratic dynasty and risking a family rift to embrace Trump’s administration, his aim now is to end the ‘chronic disease epidemic’. But who is he? And will Americans be any healthier with him in charge?

Marianna is joined by Sheryl Gay Stolberg, New York Times Health Correspondent and Clare Malone, Staff Writer at The New Yorker to find out who RFK Jr. really is and why he was appointed.

We also hear from Del Bigtree, who was RFK Jr.’s Communications Director during his brief Presidential run, who tells us he’s an ‘amazing guy’ who loves nature and walking barefoot.

HOSTS: Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Correspondent

GUESTS:

- Sheryl Gay Stolberg, New York Times Health Correspondent - Clare Malone, Staff Writer at The New Yorker

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This episode was made by Keiligh Baker and Chris Flynn with Marianna Brain, Catherine Fusillo and Joe McFadden. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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