White House Supports Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Amid CDC Controversies

Sat Sep 13 2025 06:13:02 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In light of mounting criticisms and resignations at the CDC, the White House expresses confidence in Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., calling him a key asset in restoring trust within the public health agency.

The White House has defended Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following turmoil at the CDC, where leadership changes and senior resignations have raised concerns over public health policies. Kennedy has been criticized for his vaccine stance, with demands for his resignation coming from both parties. Despite this, officials within the administration highlight his commitment to restoring the credibility of the CDC, while critics warn about the consequences of his policies on immunization and public health.

The White House is defending Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after a chaotic week at the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that led to calls for his removal.

On Friday, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller called Kennedy, also known as RFK Jr, a crown jewel of this administration.

Earlier this week, CDC Chief Dr. Susan Monarez was fired because she was not aligned with the president's agenda, the White House stated, and was replaced by RFK Jr's deputy, Jim O'Neill.

At least three senior CDC leaders have since resigned over frustrations regarding Kennedy's leadership and vaccine policy. The unrest led to calls for Kennedy’s resignation from some lawmakers.

Miller emphasized Kennedy’s status as one of the world's foremost voices, advocates and experts on public health and noted his efforts to restore the CDC's credibility.

However, critics point to Kennedy's lack of a medical degree and his controversial history with vaccine skepticism as concerning factors for his position.

The CDC has also recently faced significant layoffs, with reports indicating that approximately 600 employees were permanently dismissed. This turmoil follows funding cuts and changes to vaccination policies instituted by Kennedy that have angered public health experts.

Concerns have been raised by former CDC officials, with Dr. Debra Houry warning that Kennedy’s policies could disrupt vaccination schedules and potentially lead to disease outbreaks.

Although opposition to Kennedy's leadership spans across the political spectrum, he insists his agenda is aimed at rebuilding public trust in the CDC. In an open letter to CDC employees, Kennedy promised reform to ensure the agency is a credible source for public health guidance.