Kennedy’s Leadership Under Scrutiny Following CDC Official’s Resignation

On Thursday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the executive director of the Centers for Anesthesia and Human Services, spoke out regarding experts on measles and Covid-19. He referenced Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, the former director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

According to Daskalakis, “No one in my center has ever explained to him about any of these topics.” He made this statement during a conversation with Kaitlan Collins on CNN.

Daskalakis also suggested, “Perhaps he has an alternative expert he trusts more than the CDC experts, who are considered some of the best in the field worldwide.”

The HHS has been approached for comments on this matter.

Daskalakis resigned from his position the day before, following the dismissal of CDC Director Susan Monares, who indicated that the White House’s policies did not align with the president’s agenda.

Together with other officials, Daskalakis criticized new institutional policies, stating that decisions were being influenced by political considerations rather than solid scientific evidence.

A former CDC employee mentioned that Kennedy seems to be obtaining information from unidentified sources but has not reached out to CDC experts for guidance on various infectious diseases, even amid a recent measles outbreak affecting many states.

“He gets information from somewhere, but it’s not from the CDC experts, who are the recognized authorities in this area,” Daskalakis remarked, adding that Kennedy has declined opportunities to receive briefings on these critical issues.

This sentiment aligns with the resignation letter Daskalakis issued, stating, “We are seven months away from the new administration, and the subject matter experts at my center have never explained anything to the secretary. I really don’t know who he is listening to, but it certainly isn’t us.”

Kennedy has been known for his criticism of vaccines, raising questions about his suitability to lead a department focused on safeguarding public health.

In recent months, he has dismissed members of the advisory committee that helps CDC officials with vaccination strategies, replacing them with individuals who advocate against vaccinations.