Maryland Senator Angela Alsobrooks is raising alarm over the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., warning that current federal health policies could put Americans at risk.
Speaking in remarks highlighted in a Feb. 13 Rolling Stone report, Alsobrooks delivered one of her strongest critiques yet of Kennedy’s first year leading the Department of Health and Human Services, saying public health leadership must be grounded in science and public trust.
“Lives are at stake when we allow misinformation or political ideology to interfere with evidence-based health policy,” she said, according to the publication.
Sharp Warning on Public Health Risks
Alsobrooks argued that federal health agencies must maintain consistent scientific messaging, particularly around vaccines, disease prevention, and research funding.
She expressed concern that shifts in tone and policy direction under Kennedy could undermine public confidence in national health institutions — a development she described as especially dangerous during times of health crises.
The senator stressed that public trust is one of the most critical tools in managing outbreaks and protecting communities.
“When Americans stop trusting federal health guidance, it weakens our entire public health system,” she warned.
Political Tensions Intensify
The Rolling Stone report noted that Kennedy’s tenure has triggered growing divisions in Washington, particularly among Democrats who question whether his leadership aligns with longstanding federal health priorities.
Critics point to Kennedy’s past skepticism toward vaccines and pharmaceutical practices as a major source of concern, arguing that such positions risk politicizing health policy.
Supporters, however, maintain that his approach reflects public demand for transparency and accountability within federal health agencies.
Calls for Oversight
Alsobrooks said Congress must play a stronger oversight role to ensure federal health agencies remain committed to scientific integrity and public safety.
She framed the issue as larger than partisan politics, calling it a matter of national well-being.
“This is about protecting Americans,” she said. “We cannot afford to gamble with public health.”
