Caroline Kennedy calls her cousin, RFK, Jr., a ‘predator’ : NPR

Caroline Kennedy has referred to as her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a “predator” and “unqualified” to be the brand new U.S. Division of Well being and Human Companies secretary simply hours earlier than he was scheduled to look for affirmation hearings within the Senate.

In a video posted to social media alongside a letter addressed to a number of lawmakers, Caroline Kennedy stated she determined to talk out in opposition to her cousin due to the high-profile function he may assume in President Trump’s administration, overseeing businesses such because the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention and the Meals and Drug Administration. She urged the Senate to reject his nomination.

“He lacks any related authorities, monetary, administration, or medical expertise,” she stated. “His views on vaccines are harmful and willfully misinformed.”

NPR has reported that Kennedy has a historical past of attacking vaccines, together with routine vaccinations for kids.

Up to now, no Republicans have stated publicly that they plan to vote in opposition to Kennedy’s nomination, although some have stated they’ve remaining questions for him. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky referred to as efforts to solid doubt on vaccines “harmful.” A bunch created by former Vice President Mike Pence has condemned a few of Kennedy’s positions, whereas one other group is funding an advert marketing campaign within the states of eight Republican Senators urging them to vote in opposition to the nomination.

NPR tried to achieve out to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the White Home for remark, however was not instantly profitable.

Caroline Kennedy, who most just lately served because the U.S. ambassador to Australia, additionally stated her cousin has “private qualities” that concern her much more.

“I’ve recognized Bobby my complete life. We grew up collectively. It is no shock that he retains birds of prey as pets, as a result of Bobby himself is a predator,” she stated. Caroline Kennedy’s father, former President John F. Kennedy, and RFK Jr.’s father, Robert F. Kennedy, had been brothers.

Kennedy stated her cousin — who has talked about his personal battle with drug dependancy — “inspired” siblings and cousins “down the trail of substance abuse.” She additionally accused RFK Jr. of vaccinating his personal youngsters whereas discouraging different mother and father from vaccinating theirs.

Shortly after successful the presidential election in November, Trump introduced that he meant to call Kennedy to guide HHS, saying Kennedy would “restore these Businesses to the traditions of Gold Commonplace Scientific Analysis, and beacons of Transparency, to finish the Power Illness epidemic, and to Make America Nice and Wholesome Once more!”