Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. refused Tuesday to pledge support for President Trump’s CDC nominee Dr. Erica Schwartz, a vocal vaccine advocate, during a fiery congressional hearing. Democrats accused him of enabling the U.S.’s worst measles outbreak in decades, citing his history of undermining immunization trust. Kennedy denied responsibility, blaming global factors and parental choices, while insisting his vaccine skepticism has no bearing on policy.

The backlash intensified after Kennedy fired CDC’s top vaccine adviser Susan Monarez last month for refusing to endorse his handpicked committee. A court recently struck down his purge of 17 vaccine experts, replacing them with skeptics. Kennedy argued Monarez was dismissed for lacking "trustworthiness," not vaccine views. He also dismissed claims he influenced Mennonite communities’ low vaccination rates, stating their hesitancy predates his tenure.

Republicans defended Kennedy’s record on rural healthcare and dietary reforms, while Democrats seized on his evasion of vaccine accountability. Representative Marc Veasey called his silence on the measles crisis "blood on your hands." Kennedy’s defiance risks deepening political divisions as the administration balances public health mandates with his controversial legacy.

This standoff highlights tensions between Trump’s nominee and Kennedy’s anti-vaccine activism. Analysts warn his refusal to endorse CDC guidance could hinder outbreak responses, particularly with measles cases surging nationwide. The hearing underscored Kennedy’s pivotal role in shaping U.S. health policy amid escalating vaccine debates.