Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has dramatically replaced all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), triggering a wave of criticism from top scientists, former CDC officials, and lawmakers who warn his actions could destabilize U.S. immunization efforts.
What Happened and Why It Matters
On June 9, 2025, RFK Jr. abruptly removed every sitting member of ACIP—the committee responsible for guiding vaccine recommendations spanning decades—and appointed eight new advisors, including figures known for spreading vaccine skepticism.
ACIP’s recommendations are essential to ensuring vaccines are covered by Medicaid, insurance plans, and the Vaccines for Children program. Experts say sidelining this body threatens vaccine access and could erode public trust just as preventable diseases are resurging.
RFK Jr.’s Firing Shockwave
RFK Jr.’s sweeping purge of ACIP has ignited alarm across public health, prompting resignations, bipartisan Senate scrutiny, and urgent worries about U.S. vaccine policy. As Congress and states consider backup measures, all eyes are on whether federal immunization systems hold firm—or fragment.
Fallout From the Decision
- Resignations & resignations:
Dr. Fiona Havers, CDC expert on respiratory diseases, resigned, warning that her “data was no longer being used responsibly”. Dr. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, left shortly before. - Experts sounding the alarm:
Former White House COVID‑19 lead Ashish Jha called Kennedy’s move “sabotaging the vaccine program,” urging Congress to restore scientific oversight. A bipartisan group of ex-ACIP members labeled the action “destabilizing” and potentially dangerous for vaccination rates and public health. - Erosion of trust:
Health authorities fear the shake-up will sow confusion and diminish confidence in official vaccine guidance—just as outbreaks of measles and RSV reappear. Notably, two Texas children recently died from a measles outbreak in early 2025.
Senate Pressure Builds
Senators from both parties—among them vaccine advocate Bill Cassidy—are calling for hearings to probe Kennedy’s rationale and safeguard evidence-based vaccination policy.
In JAMA, former committee members emphasized that without ACIP’s recommendations, insurers might stop covering vaccines, leaving vulnerable communities without protection.
RFK Jr.’s Response
Kennedy asserts the overhaul addresses “conflicts of interest” and restores public trust by replacing what he deems a “rubber‑stamp” panel. He has yet to disclose full qualifications of the new advisors, though some hold academic posts, he claims.
What Comes Next
- Congressional hearings are likely to enforce oversight—Senators are preparing to question Kennedy and call for evidence supporting his removal of ACIP members.
- State and professional bodies may enact their own independent vaccine advisory committees if the federal guidance weakens—though this could lead to inconsistent vaccine policies.
- Public messaging at risk: Health experts caution that without trusted, expert-backed federal guidance, vaccine uptake could fall further—putting the U.S. at risk amid fresh outbreaks.
Expert Voices
- Tom Frieden, former CDC director, warned these moves have “critically weakened” vaccine programs and defunding global health efforts, saying “We are less safe, plain and simple”.
- The American Medical Association and ex-CDC leaders urged a Senate investigation, underscoring ACIP’s 60-year role in shaping vaccine access.
Why the Stakes Are High
- Coverage at Risk: Without ACIP’s backing, insurers and federal programs may stop covering routine immunizations.
- Public Confusion: Drastic changes could sow doubt about vaccine safety and guidelines.
- Disease Resurgence: With outbreaks rising, delays in vaccination recommendations may result in preventable illness or death.
