Summary
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the government's handling of COVID-19 was politicized and included false claims about vaccines and masks. He testified before a Senate committee, arguing that the public was misled about various aspects of the pandemic response. Some of his claims have been disputed or labeled as misleading.
Key Facts
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health and Human Services Secretary.
- He claimed the U.S. government lied about the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and masks.
- Kennedy testified during a Senate Finance Committee hearing.
- He mentioned issues with the handling of natural immunity and mask guidelines by the CDC.
- The CDC's guidance on COVID-19 vaccines and masks changed throughout the pandemic.
- Earlier statements from CDC in 2021 suggested vaccinated people did not spread COVID-19.
- More than 20 medical societies have called for Kennedy's resignation.
- Kennedy has a history as an anti-vaccine advocate and has adjusted U.S. vaccine recommendations.
