RFK Jr.'s Promises to Restore Trust in U.S. Health Agencies Faltering

One year after taking over HHS, Kennedy's actions have eroded public confidence, experts warn.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Since Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was sworn in as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services a year ago, he has defended his overhaul of federal health policy by claiming it will restore trust in America's public health agencies. However, as the longtime leader of the anti-vaccine movement, Kennedy has scaled back immunization guidance and dismissed scientists, clashing with top medical groups who say he is not following the science. Surveys show trust in the agencies Kennedy leads is falling, rather than rising, as the country's health landscape undergoes dramatic change.

Why it matters

Kennedy's actions as HHS Secretary have deepened public confusion during an already turbulent time for the nation's health agencies. Doctors warn that the false and unverified information he is promoting could cause a surge of illness and death if enough people forgo vaccination based on his guidance.

The details

Since taking office, Kennedy has upended federal health policy, scaling back immunization guidance and dismissing scientific advisers. This has put him at odds with major medical groups who say he is not following the science. Meanwhile, public trust in the agencies Kennedy oversees, like the CDC and FDA, has declined rather than risen as he had promised.

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services one year ago.
  • Kennedy has been the leader of the anti-vaccine movement for many years prior to becoming HHS Secretary.

The players

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The current U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, who has a long history as a prominent figure in the anti-vaccine movement.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

The federal agency that Kennedy currently leads as Secretary.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Kennedy's actions as HHS Secretary have eroded public trust in the nation's health agencies, contrary to his promises. Doctors warn his promotion of misinformation could have devastating public health consequences if it leads to decreased vaccination rates.