Robert F. Kennedy Jr. named health secretary by Trump, plans major changes at HHS

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Health and Human Services Department. Kennedy, known for his environmental law background, has gained attention for his controversial views on vaccines, promoting misinformation that contradicts scientific consensus. Kennedy has led the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defence and has expressed intentions to overhaul the HHS staff, targeting employees with ties to pharmaceutical companies. He aims to shift focus from infectious diseases to chronic health issues, blaming corporations for public health problems. Kennedy, a member of the famous Kennedy family, initially ran for the Democratic nomination before endorsing Trump. He has promised significant changes within the department, including the dismissal of many current staff members.