RFK Jr. discusses plans to overhaul FDA, saying they’re 'not protecting our kids
Former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who could play a significant role in a new Trump administration, recently voiced his strong views on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), specifically criticizing the agency’s effectiveness in safeguarding children’s health.
Kennedy, a longtime advocate for health reform, stated that some departments within the FDA “have to go” because, in his view, they are failing to fulfill their responsibility to protect American children.
“In some categories, there are entire departments, like the nutrition department at the FDA, that have to go,” Kennedy said in a recent interview. “They’re not doing their job, they’re not protecting our kids.” His comments underline a long-standing criticism he has of regulatory agencies, particularly those overseeing public health.
Kennedy has argued that certain divisions within the FDA are ineffective, citing concerns over the agency’s handling of issues related to children’s health, nutrition, and safety standards.
Kennedy initially ran as a Democratic candidate in the 2024 presidential race before shifting to an independent bid. In August, he endorsed Donald Trump, the President-elect, who has since hinted that Kennedy may hold an influential position within his administration.
RFK Jr. emphasizes the need to reform FDA, citing failure to protect children
Trump’s victory has positioned Kennedy as a likely figure in shaping health policy, though his exact role remains undefined. Trump reportedly assured Kennedy of a White House position if he won the election, further fueling speculation about Kennedy’s potential impact on health and safety regulations.
In a separate interview, Kennedy discussed his potential role, sharing that Trump asked him about his ambitions in a future administration. “We’re developing a proposal now,” Kennedy said, adding that they have yet to finalize the specifics. Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum directly questioned whether he would assume the position of Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary, a role that requires Senate confirmation.
However, Howard Lutnick, co-chair of Trump’s transition team, has publicly stated that Kennedy is “not getting a job” as HHS leader, which leaves open the possibility of an alternative position that doesn’t require Senate approval.
RFK Jr. speaks on FDA reform, with Trump looking on in support
Kennedy’s statements suggest that his focus in the administration would involve an aggressive approach to addressing what he perceives as corruption and inefficiency within health agencies. While he clarified that he does not aim to “eliminate agencies” without congressional approval, he expressed a strong desire to remove corruption from within these bodies. “I can get the corruption out of the agencies,” he asserted, signaling a commitment to reform.
Kennedy’s remarks have sparked conversation about his potential influence in a Trump administration, especially concerning regulatory practices that he believes fall short in protecting children. His criticisms of the FDA align with Trump’s own views on reducing government regulation and reforming federal agencies.
As Kennedy prepares to take on an advisory or potentially executive role, his focus on “protecting our kids” is likely to shape his approach to policy changes and could drive significant shifts in how health regulations are enforced.
In summary, Kennedy’s criticism of the FDA’s performance, particularly regarding children’s welfare, reflects a broader agenda he hopes to pursue in a Trump administration. His statements signal an intent to overhaul areas he deems ineffective, setting the stage for possible restructuring within the FDA to better align with his vision of public health and safety for American families.
