RFK Jr. Spokesman Resigns Over FDA Fruit-Flavored E-Cigarette Approval

Richard Danker, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has resigned from his position under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The resignation stems from a disagreement over the Food and Drug Administration's recent authorization of fruit-flavored e-cigarettes. In a letter addressed to President Donald Trump, Danker argued that approving these products undermines the department's guidance on youth risks associated with flavored nicotine. He asserted that the decision exposes children to significant health dangers, including nicotine addiction, lung damage, and increased cancer risk. This incident highlights internal tensions within the Trump administration regarding its 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda. An HHS spokesperson responded by emphasizing the need for political appointees to execute the mission with discipline, suggesting that those who lose sight of their responsibilities are free to leave. The controversy also involves former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, who reportedly clashed with the White House over similar pressures to authorize flavored vapes. The FDA recently approved four new devices by Glas, including mango and blueberry flavors, marking a notable shift in regulatory stance despite ongoing efforts to remove illicit vapes targeting minors.