Internet responds to Trump’s RFK Jr. pick: 'This is like picking OJ Simpson for Safety'

Donald Trump’s decision to appoint anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has ignited intense debate online. 

Trump announced the appointment on November 14, 2024, via Truth Social, stating, "Mr. Kennedy will restore these Agencies to the traditions of Gold Standard Scientific Research and beacons of Transparency, to end the Chronic Disease epidemic, and to Make America Great and Healthy Again!"  

Kennedy, known for his skepticism of vaccines and controversial claims about public health, has faced widespread criticism. Social media erupted with comments like, "Phew, I’m glad I got my flu and Covid vaccines in time," while others likened the decision to "selecting OJ Simpson for the Department of Safety." One user quipped, "We’re all gonna have no teeth in 4 years," summing up the apprehension among many.  

The controversy stems from Kennedy’s history of making inflammatory statements, including claims that Wi-Fi causes cancer, chemicals in water turn children transgender, and vaccines lead to autism. 

Forbes reported that his appointment triggered a market reaction, with shares of vaccine companies like BioNTech and GSK falling significantly.  

Kennedy has vowed to reform HHS, stating, "President Trump has given me three instructions: He wants the corruption and the conflicts out of the regulatory agencies. 

He wants to return the agencies to the gold standard of empirically based, evidence-based science and medicine that they were once famous for." He also promised measurable progress in combating chronic diseases within two years.  

While Trump’s supporters have hailed the decision as bold, critics remain vocal, with one X user remarking, "An anti-vaxxer running Health and Human Services? We are screwed." 

As the reactions pour in, it’s clear that Trump’s pick for HHS Secretary is already a lightning rod for controversy.