In his first speech to the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., recently confirmed Secretary, advised them to “start at square one” and “let go” of any preconceived notions they had about him.
Kennedy told Politico that “nothing will be off limits” in his efforts to reduce chronic disease. “We will be looking at some factors that were previously taboo, or not sufficiently scrutinized.”
“Those who refuse to accept such ideas can retire.”
Kennedy, who is known for his skepticism about vaccines, told Politico that he believed in the idealism and hard work of HHS employees. He admitted to asking “a lot of difficult questions” and coming up with unpopular conclusions.
I’m going to ask questions but will hold back my answers. “I’m willing for me to be wrong,” he said.
Politico reported that Kennedy wanted HHS to investigate antidepressants, ultra-processed food, electromagnetic radiation, and an herbicide in foods. He also promised “radical transparency” within the agency.
Kennedy stated, “We will eliminate conflicts of interest whenever possible from committees and partners in research or balance them out with other stakeholders.” “We will close the revolving doors.”
Kennedy chairs a commission that was formed by Donald Trump to look into chronic diseases, obesity in children, and the overmedication of children with ADHD.
