After closely following the confirmation hearings, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has reached a resolute conclusion: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is not the right pick to become the next secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
NASW remains unwavering in its commitment to advocating for policies that safeguard and elevate the social work profession, bolster public health, and ensure equitable access to vital services for all communities. During the Senate’s review, we observed significant concerns regarding Kennedy’s record – particularly in his approach to public health, vaccine policy, and adherence to evidence-based practices.
Shortly after Donald Trump’s election, he nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy holds many controversial opinions on health and promoted several scientifically debunked claims such as vaccines cause autism, fluoride is poisoning the public water system, and AIDS isn’t caused by HIV.
Social workers rely on science-driven policies to protect the well-being of our clients and communities. Undermining public trust in vaccines and other critical health interventions could worsen health disparities, particularly in marginalized communities. Members of our profession also provide frontline services in mental health, substance use treatment, child welfare, and elder care – many of which fall under HHS programs such as Medicaid and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
During Kennedy’s confirmation hearing, he struggled to answer questions about Medicare and Medicaid, programs that affect tens of millions of Americans, or provide details about how he would work to drive down health care costs. Leadership that prioritizes ideology over evidence-based policy will weaken funding and support for these vital programs.
NASW remains committed to policies that address systemic inequities in healthcare and social services. Kennedy’s past positions, including his opposition to policies designed to protect public health, raise concerns about his commitment to health equity, racial justice, and the needs of underserved communities.
Kennedy responded alarmingly when senators questioned him about the hundreds of community health clinics that HHS funds in cities across the country or the role the department plays in a federal law that mandates emergency rooms to stabilize anyone who presents at their facility.
While NASW does not support the nomination of Kennedy due to these concerns, we remain steadfast in our mission to advocate for policies that strengthen the social work profession and improve the lives of millions of Americans. Regardless of who holds the position of HHS Secretary, NASW will:
- Engage with HHS leadership to ensure that social workers’ voices are heard in policy decisions affecting health care, mental health, and social services.
- Advocate for robust funding for programs that support social workers and the communities they serve.
- Hold leadership accountable to uphold public health, science-based policy, and social justice.