Additional Coverage:
- RFK Jr. in ‘total meltdown’ after exposé claims he is ‘checked out’ of top health job (irishstar.com)
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has strongly pushed back against a recent New York Times article that portrayed him as disengaged from his official duties. The exposé, penned by reporter Sheryl Gay Stolberg, alleged that Kennedy has effectively “checked out” of managing the department, instead focusing on personal priorities like dietary guidance and vaccine skepticism.
In an extensive response posted on X, Kennedy accused Stolberg of publishing “unfair, inimical, and inaccurate” claims. He challenged the article’s reliance on anonymous sources, some of whom he noted were former employees he had dismissed or who resigned to avoid termination. Kennedy argued that Stolberg approached the story with a predetermined agenda, aiming to prove his supposed disengagement.
The Times piece described Kennedy’s typical day as arriving at the Health Department headquarters around 10 a.m., spending much of his time on his phone after leaving the gym mid-afternoon, and maintaining a limited presence in key departmental activities. It also highlighted concerns about his leadership during critical issues, such as the government’s response to the Ebola outbreak in Africa, suggesting a hands-off approach.
Stolberg reported that Kennedy has shown little interest in the detailed management of the department, instead concentrating on select issues like food policy and pesticide exposure, and continuing to pursue his long-held views on vaccine risks. The article further noted his mistrust of career officials and preference for surrounding himself with loyal supporters, even as many senior positions remain unfilled and numerous experienced staff have left.
Additionally, Kennedy has reportedly made only one visit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s headquarters, following a tragic shooting incident there. In his rebuttal, Kennedy emphasized that when he assumed office, the building was largely empty with 90% of employees not attending in person. He claimed to have reversed this trend, adding that his efforts and reforms have gone largely unreported, unlike his predecessor’s minimal attendance record.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Kennedy’s tenure and leadership style at the Department of Health and Human Services amid scrutiny over his priorities and management.