Rosie O’Donnell Slams RFK Jr.’s Autism Comments as ‘Dehumanizing’

Rosie O’Donnell, a long-time critic of President Trump, has strongly condemned Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s statements regarding the “dehumanisation” of individuals with autism.

O’Donnell appeared on CNN on Tuesday, where she and her non-binary children discussed their relocation to Ireland following the election and a forthcoming documentary on therapy dogs aiding those with autism.

“I find it incredibly disrespectful. It’s dishonorable, and I believe he lacks the qualification to oversee health and welfare,” O’Donnell stated.

Her comments were prompted by a recent speech from Kennedy, coinciding with the HHS’s announcement of “extensive testing and research initiatives” aimed at uncovering the causes of autism spectrum disorder.

Kennedy erroneously claimed that many autism cases were severe, asserting that there are children who “don’t contribute taxes,” “aren’t employable,” or who participate in baseball and express themselves through poetry. He remarked that they “never attend dates” or “utilize unassisted restrooms,” prompting backlash from advocates highlighting that many individuals on the spectrum live ordinary lives.

Having a child with autism, O’Donnell recently left the U.S. following President Trump’s re-election. She criticized Trump’s Cabinet Pick as part of a “reality show government” and argued that Kennedy is not suitably qualified to lead the agency.

“It is utterly disgraceful to consider that this family was responsible for founding the Special Olympics, yet he continues to make such disrespectful and inhumane comments,” O’Donnell expressed.

The Special Olympics was established in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Schreiber, the sister of former President Kennedy, who is the uncle of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

“I believe he should either resign or be dismissed from his position,” O’Donnell remarked.

His comments have drawn criticism from individuals with autism and their families, particularly after he stated that autism “ruins families” and depletes the “vast resources” of the country during his childhood.

Oka has reached out to HHS for a response.