Kennedy explained that this "clean sweep" was necessary to "re-establish public confidence in vaccine science," expressing concern about conflicts of interest and perceived bias in the previous committee .
In the wake of the mass removal, eight new members were appointed, including individuals described by sources as anti-vaccine advocates or lacking expertise in immunization science .
The action drew swift and sharp criticism from public health experts. Former CDC director Tom Frieden called it “a dangerous and unprecedented action that makes our families less safe,” and other infectious disease leaders labeled it reckless and seriously harmful to immunization programs .
The former ACIP members themselves cautioned that this overhaul undermines U.S. vaccine policy, potentially jeopardizing access to life-saving immunizations and eroding trust in public health institutions .
Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed all 17 members of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel in June 2025 and replaced them with new appointees. The rationale he gave was to rebuild public confidence and eliminate conflicts of interest, though critics argue the move may have adverse effects on vaccine policy and public health.
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Written by Maryjayne Aria
