Health Secretary RFK Jr. cites father’s words during defense of CDC shakeup
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Cites Father’s Legacy During CDC Hearing
During a recent hearing on Capitol Hill, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. invoked the legacy of his father, Robert Kennedy, as he discussed the Trump administration’s efforts to reform the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Kennedy highlighted the need for new leadership at the CDC, emphasizing the importance of bold, competent, and creative individuals to steer the agency in a new direction. His remarks came amidst reports of the administration’s decision to dismiss CDC Director Susan Monarez, a move that sparked criticism from Democrats who accused the administration of politicizing public health.
“Progress is a nice word, but change is its motivator. And change has its enemies,” Kennedy quoted his father during the hearing. He stressed the importance of embracing change to address the challenges facing the CDC and public health.
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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. invokes his father’s Democratic legacy during a heated Capitol Hill hearing on Trump administration health policy reforms. (Getty Images)
Kennedy’s reference to his father’s words echoes a speech Robert Kennedy delivered in 1963, where he discussed the need for change and progress in addressing societal challenges. The health secretary’s call for new leadership at the CDC reflects his belief in the importance of adapting to evolving circumstances.
As the CDC undergoes changes under Kennedy’s leadership, over 1,000 current and former federal health officials have called for his resignation, citing concerns about the impact of the administration’s policies on public health. Despite criticism, Kennedy maintains that the reforms at the CDC are restoring trust in the agency and allowing staff to focus on their scientific duties without political interference.
Health and Human Services Department (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy defended the mass firings at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during the Senate Finance Committee hearing on Sept. 4, 2025. (Wi McNamee/Getty Images)
While opinions on the changes at the CDC may vary, Kennedy remains steadfast in his commitment to revitalizing the agency and addressing public health challenges with renewed focus and determination.
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