Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared to do one thing extraordinary for a politician on Wednesday: He admitted he’s not one of the best individual for his job.
The controversial Well being and Human Companies secretary made his seeming confession of incompetence whereas testifying earlier than a Home subcommittee.
Wisconsin Democrat Rep. Mark Pocan requested RFK Jr., a infamous anti-vaxxer, about whether or not he’d contemplate vaccinating his youngsters in the event that they had been nonetheless younger towards plenty of preventable ailments, reminiscent of measles, rooster pox and polio.
Kennedy mentioned he’d contemplate the measles vaccine however in any other case prevented immediately answering the query, saying he “didn’t wish to give recommendation,” apparently unaware that one of many tasks of cupboard secretaries is to supply data, suggestions and opinions primarily based on their division’s experience.
As an alternative, he supplied a baffling quote, the type that evokes memes and turns into notorious.
“I don’t assume individuals needs to be taking medical recommendation from me,” Kennedy mentioned, suggesting individuals make their very own selections.
And, sure, there’s video.
Pocan was puzzled by Kennedy’s remark since, because the congressman identified, “That’s sort of your jurisdiction. As a result of [the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which HHS oversees] does give recommendation.”
Nevertheless, Kennedy might need been on to one thing, contemplating that he often makes false claims. At Wednesday’s listening to alone, he incorrectly mentioned that the rooster pox vaccine used within the U.S. shouldn’t be utilized in Europe and that fluoride makes people “stupider.”
Not surprisingly, many individuals on social media mocked Kennedy’s admission that he’s not a great supply for medical data.
