WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch The RFK Jr. Purge at the CDC Vaccine Panel
Jun 11, 2025
Join Alicia Finley, a columnist for The Wall Street Journal, as she delves into the controversial dismissal of all 17 members of the CDC's vaccine advisory panel by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. She questions the validity of RFK Jr.'s ethics claims and explores the implications for vaccine safety and public trust. Additionally, they discuss Donald Trump's proposed trade deal with China, highlighting its potential effects on U.S.-China relations and the importance of strategic diplomatic approaches. It's a whirlwind of ethics and policy!
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Role of Vaccine Advisory Panel
- The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) advises on vaccine schedules and safety evaluations.
- Though influential, ACIP's recommendations are advisory and can be overruled by CDC or HHS officials.
Conflicts of Interest Debate
- RFK Jr. accuses ACIP members of conflicts due to industry funding, but no direct ethical violations are cited.
- Many panel members have vaccine trial experience, which involves disclosed but routine relationships with pharmaceutical companies.
Vaccine Trial Designs Explained
- Some vaccines are tested against existing vaccines or comparators, not always placebo, for ethical and practical reasons.
- RFK Jr.'s claims about lack of placebo-controlled trials are misleading and do not reflect standard clinical trial practices.