Washington, August 30, 2025 — Senator Bernie Sanders has publicly demanded that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. step down from his role as health secretary, citing serious threats to public health under his leadership.
Sanders Criticizes Kennedy’s Tenure
In an op-ed for The New York Times, Sanders accused Kennedy of endangering Americans’ health and called for his immediate resignation. He criticized the administration’s slogan, “Make America Healthy Again,” claiming that Kennedy’s actions have undermined scientific guidance and weakened public health institutions.
Sanders highlighted the recent dismissal of CDC director Susan Monarez and the resignations of four senior CDC officials in opposition to Kennedy’s policies. He condemned Kennedy’s ongoing anti-vaccine messaging and promotion of theories widely rejected by medical experts.
Vaccine Safety and Public Health Concerns
The senator stressed Kennedy’s repeated claims that vaccines are unsafe and ineffective, noting that several experts he references have had their credentials revoked or studies retracted. Sanders warned that Kennedy has profited from spreading vaccine skepticism and is using his HHS position to erode trust in science and public health guidance.
He cautioned that Kennedy’s policies could threaten childhood vaccination programs, leaving children vulnerable to preventable illnesses such as measles, polio, and chickenpox.
Impact on Healthcare Access
Sanders emphasized that Kennedy’s policies have already created obstacles for younger adults and children seeking COVID-19 vaccines, increasing costs and administrative hurdles. He warned that continued anti-vaccine messaging could further restrict access to essential healthcare services.
Bipartisan and Professional Opposition
Kennedy has faced criticism from lawmakers across party lines following CDC budget reductions and leadership changes. More than 750 current and former public health officials signed a letter describing Kennedy as an “existential threat to public health,” accusing him of spreading misinformation and weakening the nation’s health infrastructure.
Recent Incident Highlights Risks
The dangers of misinformation were underscored 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 event has heightened concerns about the real-world impact of health misinformation.
Despite mounting scrutiny from lawmakers, health experts, and agency staff, Kennedy continues to defend his controversial positions, drawing widespread criticism and alarm.
