WASHINGTON: Seventy-seven Nobel prize winners on Monday (Dec 9) despatched an open letter to the USA Senate opposing the nomination of Robert F Kennedy Jr, President-elect Donald Trump’s selection for secretary of well being and human companies, citing his “lack of credentials” and anti-vaccine beliefs.
“In view of his report, inserting Mr Kennedy accountable for (the Division of Well being and Human Companies) would put the general public’s well being in jeopardy,” concludes the letter signed by 77 Nobel recipients in medication, chemistry, physics and economics.
Among the many signatories is Drew Weissman, who obtained the 2023 Nobel Prize in Medication for his work on growing mRNA vaccines, which was a significant breakthrough within the combat towards COVID-19.
Kennedy, a nephew of assassinated US president John F Kennedy, made his personal White Home run earlier this yr earlier than throwing his help behind Trump.
In return, Trump has tapped him to supervise the a part of the manager department accountable for well being and medication – although his choice should be accredited by a majority of the US Senate, as outlined by the Structure.
An environmental lawyer by commerce with no medical background, Kennedy has spent years professing conspiracy theories linking vaccines and autism, and most lately unfold misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines.
He has mentioned if he’s confirmed for the place he’ll work to take away fluoride from faucet water within the US, regardless of its addition being thought of a significant victory towards micro organism inflicting tooth decay.
“Along with his lack of credentials or related expertise in medication, science, public well being or administration,” the letter reads, “Mr Kennedy has been an opponent of many health-protecting and life-saving vaccines, resembling people who stop measles and polio.”
“We strongly urge you to vote towards the affirmation of his appointment,” the letter mentioned.