Digestly

Dec 17, 2024

Trump defends choice of RFK Jr. as health secretary

NBC News - Trump defends choice of RFK Jr. as health secretary

Donald Trump's nominee for the nation's top federal health official, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vaccine skepticism, appeared on Capitol Hill as part of his confirmation process. Concerns have been raised about his views on vaccines, particularly his discredited theories linking childhood vaccines to autism. Despite these concerns, Trump suggests Kennedy will be less radical than expected. Kennedy has faced criticism after a report revealed a top advisor petitioned the FDA to revoke the polio vaccine's approval. Trump reassured that the polio vaccine would not be lost but emphasized investigating the rising autism rates. During a press conference, Trump expressed his opposition to vaccine mandates, attributing them mostly to Democrat governors, while acknowledging that states recommend vaccinations. Additionally, Trump highlighted an investment from SoftBank, claiming it would create 100,000 new American jobs. He also mentioned the increased interest from tech leaders and foreign dignitaries since his election victory. Meanwhile, a judge rejected Trump's attempt to overturn his conviction in a hush money case, and Trump commented on the complexity of ending the war in Ukraine compared to other conflicts.

Key Points:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is nominated as the top federal health official despite his controversial vaccine views.
  • Kennedy has promoted discredited theories linking vaccines to autism, raising safety concerns.
  • Trump reassures that the polio vaccine will remain but emphasizes investigating autism rates.
  • Trump opposes vaccine mandates, attributing them to Democrat governors, while states recommend vaccinations.
  • Trump announces a SoftBank investment promising 100,000 new jobs and comments on increased diplomatic interest post-election.
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