John Thune Responds to Concerns Over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Policies
U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed concerns regarding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s policies and actions as the head of the federal Department of Health and Human Services during a recent appearance at the Black Hills Forum and Press Club in Rapid City. Thune acknowledged Kennedy's "interesting views" and the ongoing scrutiny he faces from senators.
Thune Addresses Concerns Raised by Nurse Regarding Kennedy's Impact
During the forum, Sherry Bea Smith, a nurse from Nemo, South Dakota, voiced her concern that "Americans have been placed in harm’s way" by Kennedy. She questioned Thune about oversight measures, given his vote for Kennedy's confirmation. Thune assured her that the Senate is actively exercising its oversight role and will continue to do so. He pointed to a recent "fairly argumentative and explosive and combative" Senate Finance Committee hearing with Kennedy as an example.
Thune stated that further hearings are likely if RFK takes actions that senators consider inconsistent with scientific principles. "I think that’s where a majority of my colleagues are," Thune said, suggesting that Kennedy will be brought "back into a zone that’s more consistent with that overall philosophy" if he veers too far from established scientific consensus.
Kennedy's Controversial Stance on Tylenol and Autism
One particular area of controversy has been Kennedy's assertion regarding a potential link between Tylenol and autism. Although the medical community deems this link inconclusive, Kennedy's statement has drawn criticism, especially concerning pregnant women. Medical professionals fear that discouraging Tylenol use during pregnancy to treat fevers could increase the risk of miscarriage and other complications.
Thune expressed shared concern, emphasizing the importance of recommendations and decisions about public health being made by "medical professionals, by people who are grounded in science, grounded in medicine, and have done the research." He highlighted that Kennedy is a lawyer, not a physician or scientist and stated that "especially on an issue like Tylenol, that ought to be something that your doctor gives you advice about."
Concerns Over Vaccine Advisory Panel Changes
Another point of contention is Kennedy's earlier decision to fire and replace the entire membership of an influential vaccine advisory panel. This panel has since moved to alter recommendations regarding childhood vaccines and COVID-19 immunizations. Before his appointment, Kennedy was known for spreading misinformation about vaccine safety, including the debunked claim of a link between vaccines and autism.
Thune mentioned having discussions with President Donald Trump about vaccine safety, stating, "The president believes in vaccines. He’s made that very clear."
