5 takeaways from a tense RFK Jr. hearing

1. Bipartisan Outcry Over Vaccine Policies & CDC Shake-Up

Kennedy faced sharp criticism from both Democrats and Republicans over his handling of vaccine policy and changes at the CDC. Senators voiced serious concerns about reduced access to COVID-19 boosters—especially for children and pregnant women—and questioned the rationale behind major leadership changes at public health agencies

Kennedy defended ousting CDC Director Susan Monarez and dismissing the entire vaccine advisory panel (ACIP), calling the upheaval "absolutely necessary" due to what he characterized as the CDC’s pandemic failures Former CDC leaders condemned these moves, warning they jeopardized public health

3. Escalating Rhetoric & Accusations During Exchanges

The hearing featured heated clashes, including personal attacks and denouncements. Senator Raphael Warnock called Kennedy “a hazard to the health of the American people,” while others accused him of misleading the committee. Kennedy, in turn, accused lawmakers of spouting “lies” and “gibberish

4. Murky Messaging on Vaccine Access & Data Uncertainties

Kennedy’s messaging left lawmakers uneasy—he denied intent to restrict vaccine access but admitted shifts in policy now rely heavily on state rules and physician prescriptions, creating public confusion . He also expressed doubt about COVID-19 death data accuracy and labeled vaccine safety data “chaotic,” even questioning the legacy of Operation Warp Speed

5. Political Polarization Intensified—Unusual Defenses & Outbursts

Vice President J.D. Vance sprang to Kennedy’s defense, exclaiming that critics were “full of s---” and framing the controversy as an ideological battle over child welfare