President-elect Donald Trump commented on Monday about his skepticism of school vaccine mandates and said that “brilliant people” are investigating a potential link between vaccines and autism. His remarks came as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his vaccine-skeptic views, met with senators considering his nomination as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services.
During a 70-minute press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump addressed the controversial subject and attempted to reassure those concerned that Kennedy would not aim to revoke vaccines if confirmed. “I think he’s going to be much less radical than you would think. I think he’s got a very open mind, or I wouldn’t have put him there,” Trump said, emphasizing that Kennedy is “very rational” and that “you’re not going to lose the polio vaccine.”
When asked if he believed there is a link between vaccines and autism, Trump stated, “Well, I don’t,” before adding, “Look, right now, you have some very brilliant people looking at it.” He also mentioned that he recently had dinner with prominent figures including the heads of Pfizer, Eli Lilly, and Kennedy, all involved in discussions about vaccine-related concerns.
Trump elaborated on the rising autism rates, pointing out that thirty years ago, the rate was around 1 in 200,000 or 1 in 100,000, whereas now it is about 1 in 100. “Something’s wrong, and we’re going to find out about it,” he said. Trump did not support revoking any vaccines but said he expected to receive a report on the matter from Kennedy.
Addressing his general stance on vaccine mandates, Trump said, “I don’t like mandates. I’m not a big mandate person,” citing his historical opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Kennedy, who has drawn concern from Senate Republicans due to his anti-vaccine stance, is facing an uncertain path toward confirmation. Some senators question whether he will have enough support to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, especially given his controversial views on vaccination.
