Trump's ex-top medical advisor advocates for RFK Jr.'s dismissal
In a recent interview with CNN's Victor Blackwell, Jerome Adams, the former US Surgeon General during President Donald Trump's first administration, has called for the firing of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current Health and Human Services Secretary in Trump's second administration.
Adams raised concerns about Kennedy's close relationship with Trump, arguing that Trump should take charge of health policy. His comments come amidst a contentious hearing on Capitol Hill earlier this week, where Kennedy was grilled about his views on vaccines and the recent exodus at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
During the hearing, Kennedy defended the changes at the CDC, claiming that they were "absolutely necessary adjustments to restore the agency to its role as the world's gold standard public health agency." However, Adams is deeply concerned about the health and safety of the nation under Kennedy's current leadership.
The former Surgeon General is particularly worried about Kennedy's influence over Trump, stating that he fears Trump is doing whatever Kennedy says regarding health policy. This concern is heightened by Kennedy's unique ability to damage the credibility of federal agencies like the CDC, NIH, and FDA.
President Trump has praised Kennedy's performance following the hearing, but Adams believes that Kennedy's actions are detrimental to the nation and Trump's own legacy. He has urged Trump to recognise the danger Kennedy poses and to take action.
The call for Kennedy's firing comes as controversy continues over his handling of vaccine approvals. During Thursday's congressional hearing, Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren questioned Kennedy about the FDA's decision to only approve updated Covid-19 vaccines for a limited group of people. Kennedy cast doubt on the efficacy of the vaccine, sparking further concerns about his leadership.
On Friday, Trump appeared to distance himself from Florida's decision to eliminate school vaccine requirements, suggesting that the decision was not made at the federal level. This move could be a response to the growing pressure to address Kennedy's actions.
CNN's Adam Cancryn contributed to this report.
Read also:
- Peptide YY (PYY): Exploring its Role in Appetite Suppression, Intestinal Health, and Cognitive Links
- Toddler Health: Rotavirus Signs, Origins, and Potential Complications
- Digestive issues and heart discomfort: Root causes and associated health conditions
- House Infernos: Deadly Hazards Surpassing the Flames
