The liberal media is at it again, fearmongering over President Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Despite Kennedy’s impressive credentials and dedication to scientific integrity, the media is portraying him as an anti-vaccine zealot.
On ABC’s “This Week”, former CDC Acting Director Dr. Richard Besser was asked if he had concerns about Kennedy’s nomination. Besser, who has been a vocal advocate for mandatory vaccinations, expressed worry over Kennedy’s belief in optional vaccines. He claimed that vaccines should not be left up to individual choice and that it is a “setup” for diseases to spread if vaccination rates drop below 95%.
But Besser’s claims are not based on solid evidence. In fact, a recent study found that areas with higher vaccination rates had a higher incidence of pertussis (whooping cough), suggesting that herd immunity may not be as effective as previously believed. And while no vaccine is 100% protective, the CDC’s own data shows that most vaccines have a success rate of 95% or higher.
Besser’s argument that vaccines are part of a “social contract” is just another thinly veiled attempt to push for mandatory vaccination policies. He claims that it is our responsibility to get vaccinated for the sake of others, but fails to mention the billions of dollars in profits that pharmaceutical companies make from selling vaccines.
Kennedy’s past partnership with Trump is also being used against him. In 2017, Trump asked Kennedy to chair a commission on vaccine safety and scientific integrity. Kennedy’s goal was to ensure that the vaccine approval process is based on sound science and not influenced by financial interests. However, the media is trying to twist this into a conspiracy theory, claiming that Kennedy and Trump are working together to push anti-vaccine policies.
Despite the media’s fearmongering, Kennedy’s appointment has been met with support from the public. And with good reason – pharmaceutical companies saw their stock prices drop after Kennedy’s nomination, a sign that maybe he is a threat to their bottom line rather than public health.
It’s time to stop demonizing anyone who questions the safety and efficacy of vaccines and start having an honest conversation about the risks and benefits. Kennedy is a highly qualified candidate who has dedicated his career to standing up against corporate greed and advocating for transparency. Let’s give him a chance to lead and see what positive changes he can make in the healthcare system.
h/t: Steadfast and Loyal
