In a recent interview, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis addressed concerns surrounding his earlier comments about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and clarified his intentions for the prominent Democrat’s role. DeSantis had suggested that if elected president, he would “sic” Kennedy on a medical agency, drawing criticism from several Republicans.
In the interview, DeSantis emphasized that Kennedy would not lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or any specific medical agency. Instead, he envisions a bipartisan task force to hold medical agencies accountable for perceived government overreach during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It wouldn’t be he would be the head of CDC,” DeSantis clarified. “That would be a doctor or a PhD.”
DeSantis plans to create a task force consisting of diverse experts who share concerns about Covid-19 policies and the federal government’s response. He believes the government’s handling of the pandemic has been a “disaster” and seeks accountability moving forward.
The Florida Governor’s remarks had sparked controversy when he suggested a potential role for Kennedy within a medical-related federal agency. Kennedy, known for conservative views on vaccines and government’s Covid-19 response, seemed to align with DeSantis on these matters.
However, DeSantis clarified that Kennedy’s role would be “outside” any specific agency to address concerns about conflicts of interest.
During the interview, DeSantis also discussed his plans for nominating individuals to medical agencies who share his policy views, like Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford University professor who had opposed lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccine passports during the pandemic. DeSantis highlighted his approach of advocating a return to normal life while protecting low-risk groups.
Notably, in April 2021, Bhattacharya participated in a roundtable discussion organized by DeSantis on alleged censorship from technology companies during the pandemic.
Governor DeSantis’ comments and proposals have drawn both support and criticism, with some lauding his emphasis on accountability and others expressing concerns about potential politicization of medical agencies.
As discussions about pandemic policies, healthcare, and government responses continue, Governor DeSantis’ statements have added complexity to the ongoing conversation about the role of medical agencies and their accountability in shaping public health policies.
The potential for Kennedy’s involvement in a task force, if DeSantis were to become president, could signal a new direction in evaluating pandemic responses in the United States.
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