Medical Groups Demand Resignation of U.S. Health Secretary Kennedy

On September 3, 2025, a coalition of over 20 leading medical and public health organizations, including the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Public Health Association, issued a joint statement demanding the resignation of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The groups accuse Kennedy of undermining scientific integrity and compromising public health through a series of controversial actions.

The call for Kennedy's resignation stems from his recent policy decisions and leadership changes within federal health agencies, particularly the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Critics argue that these actions endanger public health, erode trust in health institutions, and could lead to preventable suffering and death.

Background on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vaccine skepticism, was appointed as HHS Secretary in early 2025. His tenure has been marked by significant policy shifts and leadership changes within federal health agencies.

Controversial Actions and Policy Changes

1. Dismissal of CDC Leadership:
   In August 2025, Kennedy dismissed CDC Director Susan Monarez, who had been confirmed by the Senate just a month prior. Monarez's firing was reportedly due to her resistance to policy changes lacking scientific support. Following her ouster, at least four other senior CDC officials resigned in protest.

2. Overhaul of Vaccine Advisory Committee:
   Kennedy terminated all 17 members of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), citing conflicts of interest. Critics argue this move undermines the scientific rigor of vaccine recommendations.

3. Changes to Vaccine Recommendations:
   In May 2025, Kennedy announced that COVID-19 vaccines would no longer be recommended for healthy children and pregnant women, a decision that faced widespread opposition from health experts.

4. Budget Cuts and Layoffs:
   Under Kennedy's leadership, HHS implemented a $3.6 billion budget cut to the CDC, resulting in planned layoffs affecting 2,400 employees. These cuts have raised concerns about the agency's capacity to respond to public health crises.

Reactions from the Medical Community

• Joint Statement from Medical Organizations:
  The joint statement emphasized that Kennedy's actions have "turned away from sound interventions" and could lead to preventable suffering and death. They called for his resignation to restore the integrity and science-driven mission of HHS.

• HHS Employees' Letter:
  Approximately 1,000 current and former HHS employees signed a letter demanding Kennedy's resignation, expressing concern that his policies endanger the nation's health.

Kennedy's Defense

In response to the criticism, Kennedy defended his decisions, stating his aim is to reform a failing system and remove conflicts of interest. He emphasized the need to restore the CDC's focus on infectious diseases through transparency and competence.

Implications

• Erosion of Public Trust:
  The upheaval within the CDC and HHS has significant implications for public trust in health institutions. The dismissal of experienced public health officials and restructuring of advisory committees may lead to decreased confidence in vaccine recommendations and public health guidelines.

• Impact on Public Health Preparedness:
  Budget cuts and layoffs could impair the nation's ability to respond effectively to health emergencies.

Conclusion

The demand for Secretary Kennedy's resignation underscores the tension between political leadership and scientific guidance in shaping public health policy. As the situation unfolds, the balance between reform and maintaining scientific integrity remains a critical concern for the medical community and the public at large.