Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Hires Prominent Anti-Vaccine Activist Del Bigtree as Communications Director

In a surprising move for his long-shot presidential campaign, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed controversial figure Del Bigtree as his new communications director. Bigtree, a well-known anti-vaccine activist, brings a unique perspective to the campaign that is likely to generate both support and opposition.

Background

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, announced his presidential bid in late 2023. Despite being considered a long-shot candidate, Kennedy Jr. has gained attention for his environmental advocacy work and his vocal criticism of vaccine safety.

The Appointment of Del Bigtree

Del Bigtree, a prominent anti-vaccine activist, has been appointed as the new communications director for Kennedy Jr.’s campaign. Bigtree is best known for his controversial documentary “Vaxxed: From Cover-Up to Catastrophe,” which alleges a cover-up by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the link between vaccines and autism.

While Bigtree’s appointment may come as a surprise to some, it aligns with Kennedy Jr.’s long-standing skepticism of vaccine safety. Both Kennedy Jr. and Bigtree have been vocal critics of mandatory vaccination policies and have called for greater transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical industry.

Controversy and Criticism

The appointment of Del Bigtree has sparked controversy and criticism from various sectors. Supporters of vaccine mandates and public health officials argue that Bigtree’s anti-vaccine stance is dangerous and undermines efforts to protect public health.

Bigtree’s documentary, “Vaxxed,” has been widely discredited by scientific experts and medical professionals. The CDC and other reputable organizations have repeatedly debunked the claims made in the film, stating that there is no credible evidence linking vaccines to autism.

However, Kennedy Jr. and Bigtree maintain that they are advocating for vaccine safety and transparency, rather than outright opposition to vaccinations. They argue that the pharmaceutical industry needs to be held accountable for any potential risks associated with vaccines.

Implications for the Campaign

By appointing Del Bigtree, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is signaling his commitment to challenging the status quo and giving a voice to those who question vaccine safety. This move is likely to energize a segment of the population that shares these concerns.

However, it may also alienate potential supporters who prioritize scientific consensus and evidence-based policymaking. The controversy surrounding Bigtree’s appointment could overshadow Kennedy Jr.’s other policy proposals and make it more difficult for him to gain traction in the crowded field of presidential candidates.

Conclusion

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to hire Del Bigtree as his campaign’s communications director has ignited a firestorm of controversy. While it may appeal to those who share their views on vaccine safety, it also risks alienating a significant portion of the electorate. As the presidential campaign unfolds, Kennedy Jr. will need to navigate these challenges and define his platform beyond the issue of vaccines.

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s long-shot presidential campaign has a new communications director — prominent anti-vaccine activist Del Bigtree. https://t.co/Olb2xRAC59

— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 2, 2024

Source

@NBCNews said Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s long-shot presidential campaign has a new communications director — prominent anti-vaccine activist Del Bigtree. nbcnews.com/politics/2024-…