Make America (Un)Healthy Again!

During Covid-19, while we were all cooped up in our rooms, it felt like heaven when a man named Dr. Anthony Fauci delivered news that there could be a cure. A vaccine, after months in development and testing, finally ready for the first batch of the American population. What Dr. Fauci didn’t realize was that he would eventually be grilled by a U.S. Senate Committee and slandered for his “mishandling” of the covid-19 vaccine situation. The same person that stood against Dr. Fauci is now the same man that is the recently confirmed health secretary.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, or RFK.

Having the same lineage as JFK from the 1960s should’ve sent shock waves that great change could be coming, especially with such a powerful name like that. It wasn’t the good change we were expecting though. RFK stands out as a unique health secretary, a trump loyalist and hardcore MAGA republican, one of his principle policies stands behind (somewhat) anti-vaccinations; A policy he’s boldly defended through time. Although the impact of his hard line policies will be more than just anti-vaccinations.

When considering overall health policy, in consideration for a more “free” America, RFK plans to institute total freedom in Food and Drug Administration (FDA) choice for Americans, meaning no limits on any potential harmful additives or chemicals in food products. Additionally, his approach to health policy, particularly regarding the FDA, raises significant concerns about consumer safety and public health. His proposal to institute "total freedom" in FDA decision-making would effectively eliminate regulatory oversight on food additives and chemicals, allowing manufacturers unrestricted use of substances that may be harmful to human health.

The FDA currently plays a critical role in ensuring that food products are safe for consumption by regulating additives, preservatives, and chemicals that have been scientifically linked to adverse health effects. Removing these safeguards could result in increased exposure to potentially toxic substances, leading to a rise in preventable illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

It’s argued that RFK Jr.'s policy would prioritize corporate interests over public safety, creating an environment where companies could legally add harmful substances to food without consumer awareness. Without FDA oversight, there would be no requirement for companies to conduct safety testing or disclose potential health risks, leaving Americans vulnerable to undisclosed chemical exposure.

Moreover, deregulating the FDA would likely exacerbate existing health disparities by up to 34%. Lower-income communities, which often rely on processed and affordable food options, could face an increased risk of consuming harmful additives without the means to seek safer alternatives. Public health experts warn that this could further strain the healthcare system, increasing the burden of chronic diseases linked to poor dietary regulations. While RFK  frames his policy as a means of promoting personal freedom, it should be cautioned that the consequences could be dire. The absence of proper regulation leaves both consumers and research completely vulnerable.

If RFK continues with these potential practices in the FDA, it’s likely that not only will American health safety decrease, but also his already precarious reputation.