Washington, August 30, 2025 — Senator Bernie Sanders has called on Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to resign from his post as U.S. health secretary, warning that his leadership is endangering the nation’s public health.
Sanders Criticizes Kennedy’s Management
In an op-ed for The New York Times, Sanders stated that Kennedy’s actions are putting Americans at risk and demanded his immediate resignation. He criticized the administration’s slogan, “Make America Healthy Again,” noting that Kennedy’s policies have undermined scientific guidance and weakened public health infrastructure.
Sanders highlighted the recent firing of CDC director Susan Monarez and the resignation of four senior CDC officials in protest of Kennedy’s controversial decisions. He condemned Kennedy’s continued anti-vaccine stance and promotion of theories widely rejected by experts.
Public Health and Vaccine Concerns
The senator emphasized Kennedy’s repeated claims that vaccines are unsafe and ineffective, pointing out that many of the authorities he cites have had their credentials revoked or studies retracted. Sanders warned that Kennedy has long profited from promoting vaccine skepticism and is now using his HHS role to diminish public trust in science.
He cautioned that Kennedy’s policies could threaten childhood vaccination programs, leaving children vulnerable to diseases such as measles, polio, and chickenpox.
Impact on Healthcare Access
Sanders stressed that Kennedy’s policies have already made it more difficult for children and younger adults to access COVID-19 vaccines, adding costs and bureaucratic hurdles. He warned that ongoing anti-vaccine messaging could further restrict access to essential healthcare services.
Bipartisan and Professional Criticism
Kennedy has drawn criticism from lawmakers across party lines following CDC budget cuts and leadership shakeups. More than 750 current and former public health officials signed a letter labeling Kennedy an “existential threat to public health,” accusing him of spreading misinformation and undermining the nation’s health infrastructure.
Recent Incident Highlights Risks
The dangers of misinformation were emphasized by a recent shooting at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, where a gunman influenced by false vaccine claims killed a police officer before taking his own life. The incident has heightened concerns over the tangible consequences of health misinformation.
Despite growing scrutiny from lawmakers, public health experts, and agency staff, Kennedy continues to defend his controversial policies, drawing widespread concern and criticism.
