Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is stirring the pot with claims about Donald Trump‘s intentions regarding public health if he is elected president in 2024. In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Saturday, November 2, Kennedy, 70, asserted that a Trump administration would take significant steps to remove fluoride from the nation’s drinking water, a stance he supports by labeling fluoride as harmful.
Kennedy’s provocative statement read, “On Jan. 20, the Trump White House will advise all U.S. water systems to remove fluoride from public water. Fluoride is an industrial waste associated with arthritis, bone fractures, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease.” His remarks come on the heels of his endorsement of Trump back in August after stepping away from the presidential race, during which he emphasized that Trump and Melania Trump wish to “Make America Healthy Again.”
However, health experts have a very different view of fluoride. According to Healthline, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral recognized for its effectiveness in strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. When consumed in appropriate amounts, fluoride is considered safe and is commonly added to water supplies across numerous American cities. Moreover, fluoride is naturally present in soil, rocks, plants, and even air.
During an appearance on Fox & Friends in April 2024, Kennedy promoted his health agenda and discussed how his views have resonated within certain circles. Fluoride is generally regarded as one of the most significant public health advancements of the 20th century. In an official statement released in October, the American Dental Association (ADA) reaffirmed its support for community water fluoridation, emphasizing its importance in preventing tooth decay. “Even in an era with widespread availability of fluoride from various sources, other studies show that community water fluoridation prevents at least 25% of tooth decay in children and adults throughout their life span,” said Dr. Linda J. Edgar, the ADA’s president. “The scientific weight of sound evidence around the benefit of community water fluoridation is clear and compelling.”
Compounding the controversy, Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump has not been without familial backlash. His siblings publicly denounced his support for the former president, labeling it a “betrayal” of their father’s values and a “sad ending to a sad story.”
At a rally in Dearborn, Michigan, on November 1, Trump mentioned Kennedy’s potential role in his healthcare initiatives, suggesting he would have significant responsibilities if Trump wins the presidency. “He has some views I happen to agree with strongly and I have for a long time,” Trump stated. The former president also expressed confidence in Kennedy’s ability to impact areas like health and women’s health, underscoring that Kennedy “can do anything he wants” in his prospective healthcare position.
However, Kennedy’s controversial reputation precedes him. Known for promoting conspiracy theories about vaccines and COVID-19, he faced a two-year ban from Instagram due to his dissemination of misinformation related to the pandemic. His potential involvement in a future Trump administration raises concerns among public health advocates, particularly regarding the misinformation surrounding vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has consistently found that vaccines are safe and there is no scientific evidence linking them to autism.
As the 2024 election looms, the intertwining of health policies and political maneuvering becomes increasingly complex. For those looking to stay informed on celebrity news and current events, signing up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter ensures you won’t miss a beat.
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