Rep. Schrier Accuses HHS Secretary Kennedy of Lying About Vaccine Advisory Committee

Allegations of Deception Regarding Vaccine Committee

• 👶 Rep. Kim Schrier, a pediatrician, accused HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of lying to Sen. Bill Cassidy.
• 🤝 The accusation stems from Kennedy's alleged commitment to maintain the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) "without changes" in exchange for Cassidy's confirmation vote.
• 🎯 Schrier stated that Kennedy unilaterally changed vaccine recommendations via a video post, alarming her as a pediatrician.

Impact of Vaccine-Preventable Illnesses

• 💨 Schrier described treating infants with whooping cough (pertussis), detailing the severity of the illness, including babies stopping breathing and parents' extreme fear.
• 🦴 She highlighted that severe cases can lead to broken ribs from prolonged coughing, and antibiotics are ineffective if not administered early.
• 💉 The existence of a vaccine to prevent whooping cough was emphasized as a critical public health measure.

Discrepancy in Committee Changes

• 🚨 Schrier pointed out that Kennedy allegedly fired all 17 experts on the ACIP committee shortly after his confirmation.
• 🤥 Kennedy denied making the commitment to Cassidy, stating that if Cassidy claimed he did, it would be "inaccurate."
• 🗣️ Schrier countered that many believe Senator Cassidy over Secretary Kennedy regarding vaccinations, suggesting Kennedy gave Cassidy the answer he needed for confirmation.
• ⚠️ Schrier concluded by stating Kennedy lied to Senator Cassidy and the American people, holding him responsible for any deaths from vaccine-preventable illnesses.