In a significant development within the Kennedy family, Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, has publicly called upon U.S. lawmakers to oppose the nomination of her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., for the position of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary. In a detailed letter addressed to senators, Caroline Kennedy expressed profound concerns regarding her cousin’s qualifications and character, labeling him a “predator” and asserting that he is “unqualified to fill” the role.
Concerns Over Qualifications and Vaccine Stance
Caroline Kennedy emphasized Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s lack of relevant experience, stating, “He lacks any relevant government, financial, management, or medical experience. His views on vaccines are dangerous and willfully misinformed.” She highlighted his controversial stance on vaccinations, noting that despite his public skepticism, he has vaccinated his own children while discouraging others from doing so. This contradiction, she argues, undermines public health efforts and has contributed to vaccine hesitancy.
Allegations of Exploiting Family Tragedies
In her letter, Caroline Kennedy accused her cousin of exploiting family tragedies for personal gain. She stated, “It’s incomprehensible to me that someone who is willing to exploit their own painful family tragedies and publicity would be put in charge of America’s life-and-de … .” This remark references instances where Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has invoked the assassinations of his father and uncle in public discussions, actions she deems as self-serving.
Impact on Public Health
Caroline Kennedy also criticized her cousin’s involvement in a 2019 trip to American Samoa, which she claims led to a deadly measles outbreak due to his anti-vaccine advocacy. She argued that his actions have had tangible negative effects on public health, further disqualifying him from leading the HHS.
Family Opposition
This public denunciation is not an isolated incident within the Kennedy family. Several members have previously distanced themselves from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vaccination activities and conspiracy theories on public health. In May 2019, his siblings Kathleen Kennedy Townsend and Joseph P. Kennedy II, along with his niece Maeve Kennedy McKean, wrote an open letter stating that while he has championed many admirable causes, he “has helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines.”
Senate Confirmation Hearings
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination by President Donald Trump has led to contentious Senate confirmation hearings. If confirmed, he would oversee a significant budget and major entitlement programs as head of the HHS. The Senate’s decision will hinge on support from both Republicans and Democrats, with some senators expressing support for his nomination, arguing he could rebuild public trust in government health advice.
Conclusion
Caroline Kennedy’s public appeal to lawmakers underscores deep divisions within the Kennedy family regarding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s suitability for the role of Health and Human Services Secretary. Her concerns about his qualifications, character, and impact on public health contribute to the ongoing debate as the Senate deliberates his confirmation.
