Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) publicly condemned independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for promoting health-related conspiracy theories, particularly regarding vaccines and public health institutions. The rebuke came during a press conference where Thompson emphasized the dangers of misinformation amid ongoing global health challenges.
Thompson, a longtime advocate for evidence-based health policies, accused Kennedy of leveraging debunked claims to sow distrust in scientific consensus. “Spreading falsehoods about vaccines and the WHO during a fragile recovery period is irresponsible and dangerous,” Thompson stated, referencing Kennedy’s recent comments questioning vaccine safety and the World Health Organization’s motives.
Kennedy, an environmental lawyer turned political candidate, has long been associated with anti-vaccine activism. His campaign has amplified skepticism toward pharmaceutical companies and pandemic-era public health measures, positions that have drawn both grassroots support and bipartisan criticism. Analysts note this confrontation reflects growing Democratic strategy to counter third-party candidates who may siphon votes in key states.
Public health experts warn that conspiracy theories gain traction during election cycles. “When political figures legitimize health misinformation, it undermines community immunity efforts,” said a Johns Hopkins researcher speaking on background. The WHO recently reported declining global vaccination rates, which some attribute to persistent misinformation.
The exchange signals likely intensifying scrutiny of Kennedy’s health policy positions as election season progresses. With third-party candidates polling unusually high, both major parties appear poised to challenge their credibility on issues where bipartisan consensus typically exists among governing institutions.