HHS Spokesperson Resigns Over Clashes with RFK Jr. on Measles Response

Thomas Corry, the top spokesperson at the U.S. Health and Human Services Department (HHS), has resigned after clashing with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over the department’s response to a growing measles outbreak. Corry’s departure raises concerns about Kennedy’s ability to manage public health crises.

HHS Spokesperson Resigns Over RFK Jr. Clashes

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department’s top spokesperson, Thomas Corry, has abruptly resigned just two weeks after joining, citing disagreements with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding the department’s handling of a worsening measles outbreak.

Key Points of the Conflict

• Corry was reportedly frustrated with Kennedy’s downplayed response to the measles outbreak, which has infected at least 146 people in Texas, marking the first U.S. measles-related death in a decade.
• Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic, called measles outbreaks “not unusual” in a Cabinet meeting, despite the disease being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000.
• In a Fox News op-ed, Kennedy stopped short of recommending vaccination, instead advising parents to consult their doctors.

Internal Tensions at HHS

• Corry’s resignation post on LinkedIn suggested frustration with Kennedy’s leadership.
• Concerns have been raised over Kennedy’s lack of experience in government and public health policy.
• Kennedy’s principal deputy chief of staff, Stefanie Spear, is believed to wield significant influence, reportedly freezing out other senior aides.

Why This Matters

• Kennedy’s ability to lead HHS is under scrutiny, given his past as an anti-vaccine activist and his limited government experience.
• Trump’s decision to appoint Kennedy remains controversial, especially amid public health concerns.
• The resignation of a senior official just two weeks into the job signals internal instability within the department.

What’s Next?

• Will Kennedy adjust his stance? His handling of the measles outbreak and future health crises will be closely watched.
• How will the administration respond? The Biden administration previously emphasized vaccination efforts—will Trump’s team take a different approach?