Blog

The past three months have seen an unexpected political shift as Trump’s former adversary, Kennedy, has become a trusted ally and was appointed as head of the Department of Health and Human Services following the 2024 election.

For those who don’t know, Kennedy’s beliefs regarding scientific matters are in conflict with established facts. 

Kennedy on Vaccine

In a 2023 interview with FOX News, he voiced his support for the discredited notion that vaccines lead to autism. These are strong claims to be made by a person in a position of power, especially since Kennedy has also expressed his intent to discourage the practice of adding fluoride to public water systems – a widely accepted measure for promoting dental health, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

If  Kennedy’s nomination is to receive the necessary backing from Congress, there must be a thorough evaluation of his qualifications and suitability for such an important role in government. Senator Dick Durbin, who hails from Illinois, has expressed concerns about Kennedy’s potential appointment and made it clear that he will not hesitate to vote against it if given the chance. 

Kennedy’s nomination

In November, during a press conference unrelated to Kennedy’s nomination, Durbin emphasized the gravity of this decision for the President and stressed the importance of choosing someone who is not only qualified but also possesses the necessary knowledge and experience to handle such a sensitive position.

Many research studies have debunked this myth and it is concerning that someone like Kennedy, who lacks the necessary qualifications, could potentially hold such a crucial position. The consequence of this could be disastrous such as leading to further spread of misinformation and mistrust in the government’s efforts to address public health issues. It is worth noting that the Illinois Department of Public Health has strict guidelines in place for vaccinations that parents must follow when enrolling their children in school.

These guidelines ensure students’ safety and well-being and protect against outbreaks of preventable diseases. The state’s requirement for vaccinations dates back over a century and is continually updated based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.

For example, as far back as 1894, the Illinois State Board of Health enacted a rule stating that children must receive smallpox vaccinations in order to attend school. This measure was instrumental in ultimately eradicating the smallpox virus.

Illinois has a long-standing history of prioritizing public

In short, the state of Illinois has a long-standing history of prioritizing public health through strict guidelines and regulations. it is crucial for both government officials and citizens to carefully evaluate any proposed changes or appointments that may have a direct impact on the state’s health policies and practices. Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines and water fluoridation should not be taken lightly, as they could have far-reaching consequences for the health of Illinois residents.

At Illinois Autism Center, we are committed to providing evidence-based services and treatments for individuals with autism. We encourage the government to prioritize qualified candidates who value scientific facts and public health above personal beliefs.

Let us work together to ensure the well-being of all Illinois residents. Remember, our actions today shape the future of our state’s health tomorrow.