Department of Health and Human Services

Newly obtained letters reveal HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told Samoa’s prime minister in 2019 he intended to study MMR vaccine efficacy, contradicting his sworn Senate testimony that the trip had “nothing to do with vaccines.” Critics link his visit and his nonprofit’s anti-vaccine messaging to a subsequent measles outbreak that infected over 5,700 and killed 83, mostly children. Senator Wyden has called for a criminal probe, while HHS denies wrongdoing.

6 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 28, 03:35 PM UTC

On August 10-11, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order reducing recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11 diseases, removing universal recommendations for hepatitis B, COVID-19, and flu. The order also calls for splitting the combined MMR vaccine into three separate shots, based on debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Health experts and lawmakers strongly oppose the move, warning it increases infection risks amid a major measles outbreak. The order’s impact is limited as states control vaccine mandates.

28 reports · 9 sources · Updated Aug 21, 01:42 PM UTC

The Department of Veterans Affairs is launching the PIVOT clinical trial to evaluate psilocybin's safety and effectiveness for treating treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and PTSD in at least 240 veterans across five VA medical centers. The double-blind, randomized study runs through June 2031, offering one or two doses with therapeutic support. It follows a small Ohio State study where 75% of veterans no longer met PTSD criteria after treatment. The initiative is backed by a Trump executive order accelerating FDA review of psychedelic therapies.

15 reports · 5 sources · Updated Aug 6, 07:22 PM UTC

The Trump administration has proposed a rule to overhaul Head Start, a federal preschool program serving over 700,000 low-income children. The rule would eliminate most federal quality standards (class size, staff ratios, curriculum, developmental screenings, protections for homeless/foster children) and cap administrative overhead at 5%, saving $2.2 billion. It would also restrict enrollment to citizen or "qualified alien" children, potentially excluding immigrant families. States would set standards, leading to concerns about reduced quality and services. Critics warn of harm to children with disabilities and low-income families.

5 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 6, 04:11 PM UTC

On July 30, 2026, the Senate HELP Committee voted along party lines to advance Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC director and Sean Kaufman as ASPR assistant secretary. Schwartz’s nomination passed 13-10, with Democrat Tim Kaine crossing party lines, citing urgent health threats like Ebola and measles. Kaufman’s nomination advanced 12-11 after he agreed to avoid vaccine policymaking. Both nominees face full Senate confirmation amid concerns over political interference from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has pursued a vaccine-skeptical agenda.

14 reports · 5 sources · Updated Aug 6, 02:53 PM UTC

Stephanie Psaki, former U.S. coordinator for global health security at the National Security Council under the Biden administration, shares her career journey from studying foreign service at Georgetown to leading U.S. responses to disease outbreaks like Ebola. In an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, she reflects on her early interest in public health, the pushback she faced for her honors thesis arguing for U.S. responsibility in the AIDS crisis in Africa, and the cultural differences between working in NGOs, academia, and the federal government. Now a senior fellow at CFR, Psaki emphasizes that career paths need not be linear and highlights the importance of health as a core human experience. She also discusses the hierarchical nature of government work and the ongoing debate about U.S. responsibility to invest in global health.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 04:31 PM UTC

Fidelity Investments estimates that a 65-year-old retiring in 2026 will spend an average of $185,500 on health and medical expenses, a 7.5% increase from the previous year due to rising healthcare costs, chronic conditions, and increased service utilization. The estimate assumes traditional Medicare coverage (Parts A, B, and D) and includes cost-sharing, premiums, and out-of-pocket drug costs. Notably, long-term care is excluded, despite nearly 70% of 65-year-olds needing such services. Median annual long-term care costs range from $26,000 (adult day care) to $128,000 (nursing home private room), far exceeding the median household income of $60,000 for those 65+. Fidelity warns that 54% of pre-retirees mistakenly believe Medicare covers all expenses, highlighting a critical education gap as baby boomers reach retirement age.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 12:35 PM UTC

Former Education Department officials from both Republican and Democratic administrations warned that the Trump administration's plan to transfer key responsibilities—including special education programs and civil rights enforcement—to other federal agencies could undermine core functions and erode oversight. The Department of Health and Human Services will administer special education programs, while the Department of Justice will handle civil rights enforcement. Critics, including Sen. Patty Murray and former officials, argue the moves will create confusion, delay discrimination investigations, and weaken protections for students with disabilities. The Education Department maintains it will continue to perform all statutorily required duties.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:00 AM UTC

Former Education Department officials from both Republican and Democratic administrations warned that the Trump administration's plan to transfer special education programs and civil rights enforcement to other federal agencies could undermine core functions and erode oversight. Sen. Patty Murray convened a virtual press conference with former officials and advocates to criticize the moves, which are part of a broader effort to dismantle the Education Department. The Department of Health and Human Services will administer special education programs under the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), while civil rights enforcement will move to the Department of Justice. Critics, including former OSERS and civil rights officials, argued the transfers would split disability rights responsibilities, cause delays in discrimination investigations, and separate special education from federal education policy. The Education Department defended the plan, stating it will continue to perform all statutorily required duties.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:00 AM UTC

Former Education Department officials from both Republican and Democratic administrations warned that the Trump administration's plan to transfer key responsibilities—including special education programs to the Department of Health and Human Services and civil rights enforcement to the Department of Justice—could undermine core functions and create confusion. Speaking at a virtual press conference convened by Sen. Patty Murray, the officials argued the moves would erode oversight, delay discrimination investigations, and separate disability rights from education policy. Critics emphasized that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is an education and civil rights law, not a healthcare program. The Education Department defended the transfers, stating it will continue to perform all statutorily required duties, while dismissing the criticism as part of a failing status quo.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:00 AM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract the CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and advocacy groups warn that this will increase administrative costs, delay funding, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are essential for reaching high-risk communities and building trust. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, has condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract to CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and nonprofit groups warn that the new model will increase administrative costs, delay fund distribution, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are essential for reaching communities hardest hit by HIV due to trust and stigma issues. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, has condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract the CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and nonprofit groups warn that this will increase administrative costs, delay funding, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are crucial for reaching communities hardest hit by HIV due to trust and stigma issues. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

A multistate Cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to Taco Bell restaurants has sickened over 1,600 confirmed cases and thousands more suspected across the U.S., with Michigan hardest hit. The FDA traced contamination to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sourced from a single farm in Mexico. Taco Bell proactively removed the lettuce and switched suppliers. Federal lawsuits have been filed alleging negligence. The outbreak has affected 34 states since May, prompting a recall and highlighting ongoing food safety concerns.

34 reports · 11 sources · Updated Jul 28, 11:30 AM UTC

Civil rights groups have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration after the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) failed to respond to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. The request sought records related to attempts to freeze billions of dollars in federal childcare funding, which the administration claimed was due to fraud concerns. The lawsuit, brought on Monday, aims to compel the HHS to disclose documents about the proposed funding freeze. The case highlights ongoing tensions over transparency and the administration's handling of federal childcare programs.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:25 PM UTC

The Trump administration, led by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, paused over $1 billion in Medicare and Medicaid payments to California and Minnesota, citing suspected fraud without presenting new evidence. This follows a pattern of targeting Democratic-run states, including a prior $1.3 billion block on California. Both states are expected to sue, arguing the cuts are politically motivated. Past legal challenges have overturned similar actions.

5 reports · 2 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:49 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew $46 million in direct federal funding for 96 community-based organizations that provide HIV prevention services, including testing, linkage to care, and pre- and post-exposure drug treatment referrals. The Office of Management and Budget informed the CDC of the decision, which shifts resources to state and local health departments instead. A supplemental funding notice to states was issued but only covers funding through May, with applications due July 21. The move contradicts the White House's goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030 and is seen as part of a broader push to eliminate DEI-focused initiatives. HIV advocacy groups are urging Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya to reverse the decision. The White House's 2027 budget request proposed eliminating $800 million of CDC HIV prevention funding.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:00 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew $46 million in direct federal funding for 96 community-based organizations that provide HIV prevention services, including testing, linkage to care, and pre- and post-exposure drug treatment referrals. The Office of Management and Budget informed the CDC of the decision late last week, redirecting resources to state and local health departments instead. A supplemental notice of funding to states was issued, but it only lasts through May and applications are due July 21. The move is seen as part of the administration's push to eliminate DEI-focused initiatives that help the LGBTQ community, and it contradicts the White House's goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. HIV advocacy groups are urging Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya to reverse the decision. The White House's 2027 budget request proposed eliminating $800 million of CDC HIV prevention funding.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:00 PM UTC

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered annual testosterone-deficiency screening for all active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and older, citing military readiness. However, five of six men’s health experts contacted by Reuters expressed concern, warning the mandate lacks scientific evidence and could lead to unnecessary or harmful treatments, including infertility and cardiovascular risks. Medical guidelines recommend testosterone therapy only for symptomatic patients with confirmed deficiency. Critics note age 30 is not a valid screening threshold. The policy is part of broader controversial healthcare changes by the Trump administration.

16 reports · 6 sources · Updated Jul 20, 10:03 AM UTC

California Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra is facing intensified scrutiny regarding a fraud scandal involving his former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, and political aide, Sean McCluskie. Prosecutors allege that Williamson and McCluskie stole approximately $225,000 from Becerra’s campaign account to fund McCluskie’s lifestyle and facilitate his employment under Becerra at the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C. The scheme reportedly involved laundering funds through a company to pay McCluskie’s wife for a no-show job, compensating for a salary cut. While Becerra claims he was unaware of the theft and lying to the government, his political rivals, including Steve Hilton and Katie Porter, argue he may still face indictment. Critics suggest the scandal exposes a broader network of influential lobbyists in Sacramento. Although Becerra portrays himself as a victim during recent debates, the article argues that his indirect benefit from the scheme makes his denial difficult to believe, raising serious doubts among voters about his accountability and integrity amidst the ongoing election primary.

1 reports · 1 sources

Dr. Brian Christine, a urologist specializing in penile implants with a history of promoting conspiracy theories, has been appointed to lead the U.S. federal response to a hantavirus outbreak. The appointment has drawn significant criticism due to his lack of infectious disease expertise and previous anti-vaccine rhetoric. Currently, the CDC is monitoring over 40 individuals linked to cases on a Dutch cruise ship, though no domestic transmission has been confirmed. Critics argue this reflects a broader pattern of placing unqualified loyalists in critical health roles within the Trump administration.

5 reports · 3 sources · Updated May 15, 10:25 PM UTC

The Grants Quality Service Management Office (QSMO) is fundamentally changing its vendor acquisition strategy by abandoning traditional Requests for Information (RFI) in favor of utilizing General Services Administration (GSA) schedules. This shift aims to create a Special Item Number (SIN), specifically SIN 518210GM, under the GSA Multiple Award Schedule program to streamline the procurement of grants management services. Andrea Sampanis, Director of the Grants QSMO at the Department of Health and Human Services, explained that the previous RFI process created inefficient spikes in workload and lacked transparency. The new SIN-based approach allows for continuous vendor intake, providing greater consistency with other QSMOs and offering vendors clearer expectations. The new SIN includes subgroups for additional grants management solutions, such as single audit support and transaction processing, as well as technology operation services like maintenance and system integration. This change supports the modernization efforts of 29 federal agencies that collectively award over $1.2 trillion annually, aiming to combat fraud and standardize technology services across the government.

1 reports · 1 sources

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, posted a social media selfie with former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger during a workout session at Gold's Gym in Venice Beach. Kennedy captioned the image "Senior’s Day," highlighting their shared age demographic. The two have maintained a long-standing friendship, previously connected through Kennedy’s cousin Maria Shriver, Schwarzenegger’s ex-wife. This public appearance follows earlier controversy surrounding a video of Kennedy exercising with musician Kid Rock, which drew criticism from Democratic lawmakers for allegedly mixing taxpayer-funded public health initiatives with informal personal activities. Despite political divergences—Schwarzenegger is a moderate Republican who opposed Donald Trump in the 2024 election—he affirmed his personal loyalty to Kennedy. Schwarzenegger stated that while he disagrees with some of Kennedy's policies, he supports him as a person and friend. The incident underscores Kennedy's continued focus on fitness as part of his public persona and his "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, even amidst ongoing political scrutiny regarding his management of the Department of Health and Human Services.

1 reports · 1 sources

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, posted a selfie on social media featuring himself with former California Governor and actor Arnold Schwarzenegger at Gold's Gym in Venice Beach. The post, captioned "Senior's Day," highlights the long-standing friendship between the two men, who were previously related through Schwarzenegger's marriage to Kennedy's cousin, Maria Shriver. This public appearance follows recent controversy surrounding Kennedy's fitness routines, including a widely criticized video of him exercising with musician Kid Rock. During a congressional hearing, Representative Linda Sanchez accused Kennedy of prioritizing such stunts over public health duties, specifically citing the suspension of pro-vaccine campaigns. Despite political differences, as Schwarzenegger is a moderate Republican who opposed Donald Trump and endorsed Kamala Harris, the actor expressed personal support for Kennedy. Schwarzenegger stated that while he disagrees with Kennedy on policy, he values him as a person and maintains their bond. The incident underscores the intersection of Kennedy's public health role with his high-profile personal lifestyle choices.

1 reports · 1 sources

The General Services Administration (GSA) reports that nearly 3.4 million federal employees across various agencies can now leverage artificial intelligence tools through its OneGov initiative. Birgit Smeltzer, director of GSA’s Office of IT Products, announced that over 120 orders have been placed for these AI offerings, resulting in at least $1.15 billion in savings due to negotiated discounts. Launched in April 2025, OneGov consolidates government purchasing power to secure better rates from private sector technology providers, including Microsoft and Adobe. Major agencies such as the Departments of Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, Transportation, and State have already adopted these tools. GSA officials emphasize that the program not only reduces costs but also accelerates the adoption of AI capabilities, allowing workers to experiment with new technologies safely and efficiently. This initiative follows the launch of the USAi.gov platform, aiming to serve as a force multiplier for government technology modernization. The GSA continues to engage with industry partners to expand these benefits, ensuring measurable results from unified buying strategies.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has emerged as a leading candidate in California’s crowded gubernatorial election, leveraging his decades of public service experience as a central campaign theme. However, his rise in the polls has triggered significant criticism from former colleagues within the Biden administration. These critics challenge Becerra’s narrative of competent crisis management, specifically pointing to his tenure at HHS. Former officials argue that he lacked sufficient grasp of the agency’s complex bureaucracy during critical moments, contradicting his campaign assertion that voters need an experienced leader who does not require on-the-job training. This internal pushback presents a substantial obstacle for Becerra as he attempts to convince Californians that he is best suited to manage the nation's most populous state. The controversy highlights a divide between his self-portrayal as a seasoned executive and the assessments of those who worked closely with him in Washington, turning his federal record into a focal point of attack in the final stretch of the turbulent race.

1 reports · 1 sources

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faces growing criticism from public health experts who argue that his policymaking increasingly reflects his personal lifestyle choices rather than established scientific consensus. Since taking office in February 2025, Kennedy has prioritized access to substances like peptides, raw milk, and certain supplements, often citing his own positive experiences with them. For instance, he directed the FDA to reconsider restrictions on peptides after claiming they helped treat his back injury, a move critics say shifts responsibility to consumers without rigorous safety data. Additionally, the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which Kennedy supports, emphasize red meat and dairy intake, contradicting previous advice on limiting saturated fats. Experts point out that Kennedy frequently consumes these foods, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and scientific integrity. Beyond policy, Kennedy’s use of official HHS social media channels for promotional stunts, such as videos with Kid Rock, has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers like Senator Maggie Hassan. Critics fear this leadership style sets a dangerous precedent by prioritizing anecdotal evidence and personal preference over gold-standard science in federal health regulations.

1 reports · 1 sources

This brief from the Kaiser Family Foundation examines the history, rationale, and current policy challenges facing the two primary U.S. federal vaccine injury compensation programs: the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) and the Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP). Established as alternatives to civil litigation, these programs aim to compensate individuals for vaccine-related injuries while stabilizing the vaccine market and maintaining public confidence. The VICP, created in 1986, addresses routine vaccine injuries, while the CICP, established in 2005 under the PREP Act, covers injuries from medical countermeasures during public health emergencies. Recently, these programs have faced scrutiny, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. alleging inefficiency and corruption within the VICP and calling for an overhaul. While some lawmakers propose ending or replacing the programs, others advocate for modernization. Critics warn that drastic changes could undermine the U.S. vaccine market and erode public trust in immunization. The report analyzes claim data and discusses the structural differences between the programs, highlighting ongoing debates about their effectiveness and future role in public health infrastructure.

1 reports · 1 sources

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has highlighted a perceived existential crisis regarding declining male sperm counts, asserting that men today have half the sperm count of teenagers in 1970. This statement has prompted experts to weigh in on the validity of his claims and their impact on national birth rates. Dr. Hagai Levine, lead author of a major 2022 study, supports Kennedy’s assertion, citing a 50 percent global decline in sperm concentration between 1973 and 2018. Conversely, a recent January study led by Dr. Scott Lundy at the Cleveland Clinic found no clinically significant decline among fertile American men during a similar period, suggesting reasons for reassurance. While methodologies differ, Levine maintains that low sperm count serves as a marker for general poor health and potential endocrine disruption from environmental chemicals. The debate underscores the complexity of linking biological metrics to broader demographic trends, with scientific consensus remaining divided on the severity and causes of the alleged fertility crisis.

1 reports · 1 sources

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has firmly stated he will not run for president in 2028, aiming to balance the demands of his Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) supporters with loyalty to the Trump administration. Despite growing pressure from MAHA adherents who feel betrayed by the White House's refusal to fully restrict vaccines or investigate conspiracy theories, Kennedy remains committed to his cabinet role. The tension intensified after President Trump nominated vaccine-supporter Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC, a move criticized by anti-vaccine activists. Kennedy is currently campaigning for Republican candidates in upcoming midterm elections to shore up GOP support. Analysts suggest that leaving his post for a presidential bid would diminish MAHA's influence and create a political collision with President Trump, who is considering other successors. Kennedy defends his tenure, claiming unprecedented freedom to reshape health policy, even as he navigates a widening schism between his anti-vaccine crusade and the administration's broader political strategies.

1 reports · 1 sources