Newsom Demands Answers from HHS Secretary Kennedy Over Past Comments on Black Children

California governor condemns Kennedy's remarks about 'reParenting' Black kids on ADHD meds as 'racist' and 'unacceptable'

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:08am

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A cinematic, painterly scene of a dimly lit, empty government office space with a single desk and chair in the center, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the somber mood of political accountability.As questions swirl over the HHS Secretary's past remarks, the quiet, contemplative mood in the federal offices reflects a need for political accountability.Los Angeles Today

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is demanding answers from Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over comments he made in a 2024 interview about Black children on ADHD medications being 'reParented.' Newsom called Kennedy's remarks 'racist' and 'absolutely unacceptable' for a federal health official, comparing them to past racist policies of separating Black families.

Why it matters

Kennedy's comments reflect concerning racial biases that raise questions about his ability to fairly and equitably serve as the nation's top health official. Newsom is holding the administration accountable for promoting harmful stereotypes that echo a history of racist policies targeting Black families and children.

The details

In a 2024 interview, Kennedy said 'every Black kid is now, just as a standard, put on adderall, [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors], benzos' and that those kids 'are going to have a chance to go somewhere and get re-parented.' He claimed this 'reParenting' came from an experience a family member had at an addiction treatment program in Italy. Kennedy made the remarks less than two months before dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.

  • In 2024, Kennedy made the controversial comments in an interview.
  • On April 18, 2026, Newsom condemned Kennedy's remarks and demanded he be held accountable.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California who is condemning Kennedy's remarks as 'racist' and 'unacceptable' for a federal health official.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The current Secretary of Health and Human Services who made controversial comments in 2024 about 'reParenting' Black children on ADHD medications.

Terri Sewell

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Alabama who questioned Kennedy about his past remarks during a congressional hearing.

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What they’re saying

“We've known RFK Jr. has been unfit to serve as Secretary, but these resurfaced remarks reflect a racist mentality that is absolutely unacceptable for a leader charged with protecting the health of 341 million Americans.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

“For you to suggest that Black families are not capable of raising their own children is deeply offensive.”

— Terri Sewell, U.S. Representative

What’s next

Rep. Sewell has vowed to continue pressing Kennedy on his past comments and his fitness to serve as HHS Secretary. Newsom has indicated he may take further legal action against the federal administration over the remarks.

The takeaway

Kennedy's resurfaced comments about 'reParenting' Black children on ADHD medications reflect concerning racial biases that raise serious questions about his ability to lead the nation's health department in an equitable manner. Newsom and other officials are holding the administration accountable for promoting harmful stereotypes that echo a history of racist policies.