Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced plans to significantly downsize or shutter multiple federal health agencies, a move that would eliminate an estimated 10,000 jobs and, experts warn, put public health at risk.
In a speech on Wednesday, Kennedy criticized agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), accusing them of being “captured by corporate interests” and “wasting taxpayer money.” He argued that a drastic reduction in their size—or their outright closure—would reduce bureaucracy and increase medical freedom.
“These agencies have been compromised,” Kennedy said. “They no longer serve the people, but instead push agendas driven by Big Pharma and special interests. We need to clean house and rethink how public health is handled in this country.”
While Kennedy did not specify exactly which agencies would be shuttered versus downsized, his proposal includes slashing tens of thousands of positions across multiple departments, with the goal of what he calls a “leaner, more accountable” health system.
Public Health Concerns
Experts warn that gutting these agencies would have dire consequences, particularly in areas of infectious disease control, drug safety, and medical research.
“This would be catastrophic,” said Dr. Lisa McGuire, a public health policy expert. “The CDC and NIH play critical roles in monitoring and preventing outbreaks, researching new treatments, and ensuring that Americans have access to safe and effective medications. Cutting 10,000 jobs from these agencies would cripple our ability to respond to public health threats.”
“He’ll make America sick again,” said Lawrence Gostin, a professor of public health law at Georgetown University.
Former CDC officials also expressed alarm, noting that reducing staff could leave the U.S. vulnerable to future pandemics and outbreaks.
“If this had happened before COVID-19, our response would have been even more delayed and chaotic than it was,” said Dr. Mark Reynolds, a former CDC epidemiologist. “And if we don’t have the workforce to track new diseases, Americans will be left in the dark the next time an outbreak occurs.”
Political Ramifications
Kennedy’s proposal has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. While some conservative lawmakers support cutting government spending, others worry that slashing health agencies would alienate voters who rely on these services. Meanwhile, Democrats have slammed the plan as reckless and dangerous.
“Public health should never be a political pawn,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). “Gutting these agencies will only harm everyday Americans while benefiting conspiracy theorists and corporate interests.”
Despite the backlash, Kennedy remains committed to his plan, insisting that the American healthcare system needs a radical overhaul.
“This isn’t about cutting jobs—it’s about cutting corruption,” he said. “And we’re going to give the power back to the people.”
As the 2024 election heats up, Kennedy’s proposal is sure to be a key issue, with public health advocates and political opponents pushing back against what they see as a dangerous gamble with American lives.