Robert F. Kennedy Jr. just shook up the biotech world with a bold move that’s already sparking major backlash.
On Tuesday, the U.S. Health Secretary, long known for his outspoken stance on vaccines, announced the cancellation of nearly $500 million in government contracts tied to mRNA-based vaccine development. That includes mRNA work for both COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines, marking a sharp pivot in U.S. public health strategy.
In a video posted on X, RFK Jr. stated that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) came to this decision after reviewing data and consulting with experts from the NIH and FDA. “HHS has determined that mRNA technology poses more risk than benefits for these respiratory viruses,” he said, citing what he believes are safety concerns tied to the mRNA platform. Kennedy’s skepticism toward vaccines, especially mRNA ones, has been well-documented, and this move aligns with his long-standing views.
The fallout was immediate. Former BARDA head Rick Bright, who was instrumental in early pandemic response efforts and a strong supporter of mRNA tech, slammed the decision as a “huge strategic misstep.” In a message, he warned, “Disinvesting from mRNA strips us of one of the fastest tools we have to contain the next pandemic… this deeply compromises national security.”
According to HHS, 22 active mRNA projects are being impacted. Some, like collaborations with Emory University and Tiba Biotech, will be outright canceled. Proposals from big players like Pfizer, Sanofi Pasteur, CSL Seqirus, and Gritstone are also being tossed out. While some contracts nearing completion will be allowed to finish, most will be axed to cut off what Kennedy sees as unnecessary risk and spending.
That’s not all. HHS is also instructing the Global Health Investment Corporation, tasked with managing BARDA’s tech investments, to stop pouring money into any equity ventures involving mRNA. Still, officials noted that not all HHS programs involving mRNA will be touched by this decision. For now, the focus is squarely on vaccine development.
Looking forward, BARDA’s investments will shift toward other vaccine technologies, including whole-virus platforms and new immunization strategies. RFK Jr. believes this will lead to safer and more traditional approaches to disease prevention, though not everyone in the medical and scientific community agrees.
For Kennedy, this move sends a loud message that he’s ready to challenge the biotech status quo. But for critics, it’s a step backward at a time when fast, adaptable vaccine platforms are seen as essential to global health security. Either way, the future of U.S. vaccine development just changed course in a big way.
Leo Cruz brings sharp insights into the world of politics, offering balanced reporting and analysis on the latest policies, elections, and global political events. With years of experience covering campaigns and interviewing world leaders, Leo ensures readers are always informed and engaged.
