Editorial 15.11.24
Politics continues to dominate the headlines this morning, as American commentators react to incoming president Donald Trump’s choice for health secretary. Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a known vaccine sceptic, has received the nod from the president-elect and it has led to some strong reactions on the front pages.
Elsewhere, there is also reaction from Trump’s other picks, including the controversial choice of Matt Gaetz for attorney general.
‘known sceptic could soon be in charge of vaccine safety,’ reports The Washington Post.
The Washington Post says the vaccine sceptic could soon be in charge of vaccine safety. The paper notes is approved by the Senate he could be responsible for health insurance and approving drugs. Inside the paper, a report suggests Kenndy is determined to overhaul the country’s food policy.
‘Loyal following of people who admire his work as a lawyer,’ claims the LA Times.
The Los Angeles Times says JFK Jr has built a loyal following of people who admire his work as a lawyer – including his lawsuits against pesticide and pharmaceutical companies. The paper notes he is an anti-vaccine activist who will now be in charge of the agency overseeing drug and vaccine safety.
‘His views are dangerous,’ says The Boston Herald.
The Boston Herald says Kennedy is “one of the most prominent anti-vaccine activists in the world” and has views that have been decried as “dangerous” by many public health officials.
‘Kennedy’s views health are warped by conspiracy,’ says the New York Post.
The New York Post (a strong Trump supporter) offered up a damning verdict via its editorial. The paper says the appointment breaks the overriding rule of medicine – “do no harm” – and warns that Kennedy’s views on health are a “head-scratching spaghetti” of “what can only be described as warped conspiracy theories”.