(PORTLAND, Ore.) — 100 days into President Trump’s second term, his selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to head the Department of Health and Human Services is as controversial as ever. One community reeling from the discourse is those on the autism spectrum, their loved ones, and those who work with individuals with ASD.
Some of RFK’s claims that have gained widespread media criticism include his statement that “autism destroys families” in recent White House remarks. The Health Secretary has also come under fire for comments insinuating a connection between vaccination and autism in children, echoing a recent rise in vaccine hesitancy.
One issue members of the ASD community are most concerned about is a potential “autism registry.” While many suggested it would violate HIPAA and dehumanize people on the spectrum, others were excited to see increased research go towards neurodivergence.
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