Former surgeons general warn RFK Jr. endangering health
Six former U.S. surgeons general published an Oct. 7, 2025 op‑ed saying HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s policy decisions and rhetoric are 'endangering the health of the nation,' citing recent actions such as the June removal of the CDC’s ACIP vaccine advisory panel, August limits on COVID‑19 vaccine eligibility, and public promotion of debunked vaccine claims. The signatories — appointed by presidents from both parties and including Jerome Adams — called for leadership that respects scientific integrity and transparency and urged repair of damaged federal public‑health institutions.
Politics
Health
📌 Key Facts
- Six former U.S. surgeons general (appointed under presidents back to George H.W. Bush) signed the op‑ed published Oct. 7, 2025.
- They criticize HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for ousting the 17‑member ACIP advisory panel in June 2025 and for announcing new limits on COVID vaccine eligibility in August 2025.
- The former surgeons general say Kennedy has promoted debunked vaccine claims (including alleged vaccine‑autism links) and warned his actions have driven talent departures and undermined public‑health credibility.