RFK Jr. claims he is unaware of $11 billion in health program cuts

In early April 2025, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was appointed Secretary of Health and Human Services under the Trump administration, conducted his first network television interview. During the interview with CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook, he addressed significant cuts to health programs as well as questions around the measles vaccine. The proposed cuts presented a staggering impact on vital services, totaling over $11 billion, affecting areas such as mental health, infectious diseases, addiction treatment, and childhood vaccination programs. Kennedy expressed surprise at being informed of specific cuts, such as the termination of a $750,000 research grant from the University of Michigan aimed at addressing adolescent diabetes. He indicated a lack of familiarity with these significant reductions and noted that they were primarily associated with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives as ordered by the President. While he acknowledged witnessing some of the important studies that had been affected, he also stated that there was a plan in place to reinstate around 20% of the cuts made and to remedy oversights involving the Department of Government Efficiency, which was reportedly responsible for administering some of the job cuts. Kennedy's approach towards the health department reflected a broader agenda branded as “Make America Healthy Again,” which entailed a comprehensive restructuring of health services. This included a drastic reduction in the number of full-time employees, from 82,000 to 62,000 since the beginning of his appointment. Despite the job losses, Kennedy also communicated his intentions to prioritize reinstating vital positions and programs that were cut, underscoring his goal of aligning the Health and Human Services (HHS) mission with the fundamental need to tackle chronic diseases and health issues facing Americans. Addressing the issue of vaccines, Kennedy, who has long been a controversial figure regarding vaccine efficacy and safety, stated that he now encourages the public to receive the measles vaccine amidst an ongoing outbreak in Texas. With over 500 confirmed cases reported and several related deaths, particularly among unvaccinated children, Kennedy emphasized the necessity of scientifically substantiated health information to help Americans make informed choices regarding vaccination and their health. He reiterated that the HHS is dedicated to improving the nation's health despite its challenges, calling attention to the disparity between healthcare spending and actual health outcomes.