Hawaii Governor: RFK Jr. Leading Health Department Could Be ‘Catastrophic’
Hawaii Governor Josh Green joined MSNBC’s Jonathan Capehart to discuss mounting concern over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s potential takeover of the Department of Health and Human Services.
“If you doubt [RFK Jr.] could doom us," Green said.
"I saw Tragedy Firsthand"
Green underscored the increasing threat of vaccine misinformation and the real-life consequences it poses, citing his own experience witnessing a deadly measles outbreak in Samoa earlier in his career.
"As a doctor, I’ve seen the damage firsthand," Green continued. “
He urged Donald Trump to reconsider who should lead HHS.
"There are better options,"
Governor Green emphasized.
Doubts about Kennedy Jr.’s Leadership
Green expressed deep concern about Kennedy Jr.’s vast disbelief in vaccines and his promotion of disproven theories linking vaccines to autism and other health issues. Tests show widespread scientific consensus refutes any
Considering Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s history of skepticism towards vaccines, would he be able to effectively lead the Department of Health and Human Services and promote public health initiatives?
## “Catastrophic” HHS Leadership?
**Jonathan Capehart:** Governor Green, thank you for joining us today. You’ve been very vocal about your concerns regarding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s potential appointment as head of the Department of Health and Human Services. You used a very strong word to describe the potential outcome – “catastrophic.”
**Gov. Green:** Jonathan, I don’t use that word lightly. As a doctor who has witnessed the devastating impact of vaccine preventable diseases firsthand, I am deeply troubled by Mr. Kennedy’s long-standing opposition to vaccines. His spread of misinformation could have deadly consequences for public health.
**Jonathan Capehart:** You mentioned witnessing a measles outbreak in Samoa. Can you elaborate on that experience and why it’s relevant to this discussion?
**Gov. Green:** It was a truly harrowing experience. A measles outbreak swept through the island nation, fueled by vaccine hesitancy.
Children were hospitalized, some lost their lives. It was a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination in protecting our communities.
**Jonathan Capehart:** Considering Mr. Kennedy’s stance on vaccines, some argue his appointment could lead to a resurgence of preventable diseases. Is that a legitimate concern?
**Gov. Green:**
Absolutely. His leadership could send a dangerous message to the public, undermining trust in essential public health measures.
**Jonathan Capehart:** Some might argue that Mr. Kennedy is entitled to his beliefs, and that his appointment shouldn’t be solely based on his personal views. How do you respond to that?
**Gov. Green:** This isn’t about personal beliefs. Public health leadership requires a commitment to evidence-based science and policies that protect the well-being of all Americans. Mr. Kennedy’s history casts serious doubts on his ability to fulfill that responsibility.
**Jonathan Capehart:**
Governor Green, thank you for sharing your perspective. Given Mr. Kennedy’s stance on vaccines, do you believe his appointment would ultimately be harmful to public health?
**Gov. Green:**
Jonathan, based on everything I know, I believe it would be highly detrimental. The health and well-being of our nation depends on strong leadership grounded in science and compassion, and unfortunately, I don’t see that in Mr. Kennedy.
**
**What are your thoughts on Governor Green’s concerns? Would Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s beliefs and background make him an effective leader of the Department of Health and Human Services?**
