Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed and sworn in as the head of the Department of Health and Human Services this week. However, his commitment to “Make America Healthy Again” may face significant obstacles — not only due to the limitations inherent in his position but also because of ongoing administrative actions aimed at reducing funding for health agencies.
On CBS News 24/7 on Friday, Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, noted that mass layoffs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, initiated by the Trump administration, could hinder advancements in health matters for many years.
“Over 1,200 (new hires) are anticipated to be let go,” she explained. “…That’s a significant portion of the CDC workforce.”
Furthermore, she added, “Another group being targeted includes senior scientists. These individuals represent some of the most talented professionals, along with the youngest newcomers entering the field. Thus, this situation is particularly alarming when both your top talent and new entrants are facing large-scale dismissals.”
Potential Impacts of CDC Cuts on Americans’ Health
These layoffs come as the nation grapples with a deadly resurgence of the flu this season, measles outbreaks in several regions, and increased concerns regarding bird flu.
“We can expect a few outcomes. Firstly, it will create a chilling effect on the Public Health Service. People might hesitate to perform necessary public outreach and communications,” Gounder stated. “In some states, such as Louisiana, we’ve observed a reduction in mass vaccination efforts. I believe we will continue to see similar trends, driven by politics and ideology rather than scientific guidance.”
Currently, vaccine skepticism poses significant risks to public health. Experts note that politicized views on vaccines are leading to decreased vaccination rates nationwide, contributing to outbreaks of otherwise preventable diseases.
Kennedy has a longstanding history of questioning the safety of vaccines, despite extensive evidence demonstrating their crucial role in saving millions from serious illnesses and fatalities.
What Authority Does RFK Jr. Possess?
With his confirmation, Kennedy now leads the expansive HHS department, which encompasses the CDC, the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the Food and Drug Administration. However, despite his enthusiasm for transforming American dietary habits, his authority in that area is limited.
“HHS doesn’t have a vast array of tools to enhance the healthiness of the food supply,” Gounder indicated, noting that such responsibilities primarily lie with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agency.
“In fact, during the Senate confirmation hearings, one senator challenged him on this point, essentially advising him to stay within his boundaries and recognize that particular issues fall under the jurisdictions of the USDA and EPA concerning environmental chemicals,” she continued. “As for whether he can fulfill his commitments, I remain highly doubtful.”
One tangible action he could potentially advance is the initial guidance from the FDA regarding front-of-package food labeling, Gounder noted.
“(These labels) would provide clear information to consumers about the healthiness of food items, although it’s uncertain whether this regulation will be finalized in the current administration,” she remarked.
Additionally, Gounder highlighted that the MAHA initiative seems to overlook critical issues affecting children’s health in the U.S.
“While it’s commendable to advocate for children’s health, we must ask: What are the leading causes of death among children in this country? It’s gun violence and motor vehicle accidents,” she noted. “These critical issues do not appear in the MAHA executive order signed by President Trump.”
