Washington, August 30, 2025 — Senator Bernie Sanders has called for the resignation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from his post as health secretary, warning that his tenure threatens the health and safety of Americans.
Sanders’ Call to Action
Writing in The New York Times, Sanders accused Kennedy of endangering public health and stated unequivocally that he should resign. The senator criticized the Trump administration’s slogan “Make America Healthy Again,” arguing that Kennedy’s actions have contradicted the message by undermining science and medical guidance.
Sanders highlighted the recent dismissal of CDC director Susan Monarez and the resignation of four senior CDC officials in protest, asserting that these moves reflect Kennedy’s controversial approach to public health policy. He condemned Kennedy’s ongoing anti-vaccine advocacy and promotion of theories rejected by mainstream medical experts.
Vaccine Misinformation Concerns
Sanders emphasized that Kennedy has repeatedly claimed vaccines are unsafe and ineffective, relying on discredited research and experts whose credentials have been revoked. He warned that Kennedy has built his career on creating doubt around vaccines and is now using his HHS position to spread misinformation and erode trust in science.
The senator expressed concern that Kennedy’s actions could disrupt essential childhood immunization programs, putting children at risk for diseases like measles, polio, and chickenpox that had previously been controlled through vaccination.
Impact on Access to Healthcare
Sanders noted that policies under Kennedy’s leadership have already made COVID-19 vaccines less accessible to younger adults and children, increasing costs, bureaucracy, and logistical challenges. He cautioned that continued anti-vaccine messaging could further restrict public access to vital healthcare.
Bipartisan and Professional Backlash
Kennedy has faced rare bipartisan criticism following CDC budget cuts and agency leadership changes. More than 750 current and former public health officials signed a letter denouncing Kennedy as an “existential threat to public health,” accusing him of disseminating false information and weakening the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
Tragic Incident Highlights Risks of Misinformation
The dangers of vaccine misinformation were underscored by a recent shooting at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, where a gunman, influenced by false beliefs about COVID-19 vaccines, killed a police officer before taking his own life. The event has intensified scrutiny over the spread of medical misinformation.
Despite mounting pressure from lawmakers, health experts, and agency staff, Kennedy continues to defend his controversial positions, drawing widespread criticism from public health leaders and government officials.
