Michigan Democrat Moves to Impeach Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Over Allegations
Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) announced on March 15, 2024, her intention to draft articles of impeachment against Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Stevens accuses Kennedy of violating his oath of office and argues that he is “unfit to serve.” Her statement comes amid growing concerns regarding Kennedy’s approach to health policy and public health safety.
In her announcement, Stevens criticized Kennedy for actions she claims are detrimental to public health in Michigan and beyond. She stated, “RFK Jr. is making our country less safe and making healthcare less affordable and accessible for Michiganders.” Stevens specifically highlighted what she describes as Kennedy’s “contempt for science,” accusing him of spreading conspiracy theories and disregarding the extensive research efforts of leading medical professionals.
Stevens detailed several points that will form the basis of the impeachment articles. One major concern is Kennedy’s funding cuts for medical research, which she termed an “abdication of duty.” She also pointed to his management of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alleging that he has politicized these critical health agencies.
Concerns Over Vaccine Policies and Public Health
The congresswoman expressed particular concern regarding Kennedy’s policies related to vaccines. She accused him of severely restricting access to vaccines and spreading “absurd conspiracies,” which she claims endanger lives and increase healthcare costs. Stevens noted that Kennedy’s decision to withdraw federal recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant women and healthy children was alarming. Additionally, the cancellation of research on mRNA vaccines raised further questions about his commitment to public health.
Stevens also cited Kennedy’s controversial remarks made recently at the White House, where he linked acetaminophen to autism. She described these claims as “wild and unfounded” and suggested they were an attempt to limit access to the widely used medication Tylenol.
The congresswoman emphasized that Kennedy’s actions are not only reckless but also a violation of his promises made during his confirmation hearing. She accused him of lying when he assured Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-La.) that he would maintain the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel without alterations.
Stevens concluded with a strong call to action, stating, “Secretary Kennedy has violated his oath of office and proven himself unfit to serve the American people. Congress must act to hold him accountable, and I intend to lead the charge to remove him from office.”
As of now, the Department of Health and Human Services has not responded to requests for comment regarding these allegations or the impending impeachment articles. The political landscape surrounding this issue continues to evolve, and the implications of Stevens’s actions could resonate significantly within the political sphere and the public health community.
