RFK Jr. Could Lead Trump Administration’s Battle Against ‘Childhood Chronic Disease’

The anti-vaccine activist is reportedly under consideration for a position on a new presidential commission.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent vaccine skeptic, is reportedly being considered for a position on a new presidential commission tasked with addressing "childhood chronic disease," according to The New York Times.

The commission, which was announced by President Donald Trump in May, is charged with investigating the causes of rising rates of autism, asthma, and other chronic diseases in children.

Kennedy has been a vocal critic of vaccines for years, claiming that they are linked to autism and other health problems. He has also been a strong supporter of Trump, and has spoken at several of the president's rallies.

The news of Kennedy's possible appointment has been met with alarm by some public health experts, who say that his views on vaccines are not supported by science.

"It's deeply concerning that someone with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s anti-vaccine views is being considered for a position on this commission," said Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

"The commission is supposed to be about finding ways to reduce childhood chronic disease, and Kennedy's views on vaccines would only put children at greater risk."

The White House has not yet confirmed Kennedy's appointment, but it is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.