Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy publicly called to delay a vaccine advisory panel meeting scheduled for June 25th, throwing into question the experience among a handful of the panel’s new members picked by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Cassidy stated via X, “Wednesday's meeting should not proceed with a relatively small panel, and no CDC Director in place to approve the panel's recommendations. The meeting should be delayed until the panel is fully staffed with more robust and balanced representation—as required by law—including those with more direct relevant expertise.”
On June 9th, RFK Jr. abruptly fired all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a committee that advises the CDC on vaccine use.
Shortly after gutting the committee, RFK Jr. appointed 8 new members. Critics promptly raised concerns that some of the picks were highly skeptical of the effectiveness of vaccines, as well as a lack of credentials and education in key areas related to vaccine technology.
Cassidy’s post explains, “Although the appointees to ACIP have scientific credentials, many do not have significant experience studying microbiology, epidemiology or immunology. In particular, some lack experience studying new technologies such as mRNA vaccines, and may even have a preconceived bias against them. Robust and transparent scientific discussion is important, so long as it is rooted in evidence and understanding.”
Cassidy, a medical professional and vaccine advocate, was critical of Trump's choice to appoint RFK. During RFK Jr.’s confirmation hearing, Cassidy raised concerns over Kennedy’s history of vaccine opposition. However, Cassidy claims he received assurance that if he endorsed Kennedy, he would make no changes to ACIP.
RFK denies giving Cassidy assurance on this front. However, Rep. Kim Schrier (D-Wash.) accused RFK of lying on Tuesday, saying during a budget comitee hearing, "I know Sen. Cassidy had concerns about your views on this, and so when he voted to confirm you as Secretary of HHS on Feb. 4, he explained that decision by saying on the Senate floor that, ‘If confirmed, you will maintain the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices without changes,'”
RFK responded, calling the claim inaccurate.
Thus far, RFK has made no indication that he will delay the meeting, even though Cassidy claims that under the current state, “ACIP’s recommendations could be viewed with skepticism, which will work against the success of this Administration's efforts."
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