The independent presidential candidate asserts he would oversee key health departments if Trump wins a second term

In a recent video, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the independent presidential candidate, revealed that former President Donald Trump has promised him “control” over crucial public health agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA), should he secure victory in next week’s election.

Kennedy, who has pivoted from his own presidential campaign to endorse Trump, stated, “The key that … President Trump has promised me is control of the public health agencies, which are HHS and its subagencies, including the CDC, FDA, and NIH, along with the USDA, which is essential for making America healthy.” He emphasised the need to move away from seed oils and pesticide-heavy agriculture to improve public health.

Since suspending his campaign in August, Kennedy has been active as a surrogate for Trump, suggesting that if given the opportunity to address the chronic disease crisis and reform food production, significant improvements could be seen within two years. His endorsement has further solidified his position within Trump’s camp, as he now serves on the former president’s transition team.

Known for his longstanding anti-vaccine stance and as the founder of the Children’s Health Defense group, Kennedy has increasingly focused on children’s health issues, advocating for solutions to the rising prevalence of chronic childhood diseases. His push for reform within HHS aligns with his argument that these agencies are in dire need of overhaul to better serve the American public.

During Trump’s campaign rally in New York City, the former president expressed his willingness to allow Kennedy to take an active role in reforming food and medicine policies. “I’ll let him go wild on food and go wild on medicines,” Trump declared, showcasing his commitment to incorporating Kennedy’s health initiatives into his potential administration.

The Trump campaign has not denied Kennedy’s claims regarding the promised control over health agencies. While formal decisions about Cabinet positions and personnel have yet to be made, Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaign’s national press secretary, stated, “President Trump has said he will work alongside passionate voices like RFK Jr. to Make America Healthy Again by providing families with safe food and ending the chronic disease epidemic plaguing our children.”

Trump’s assurances include placing Kennedy on a panel aimed at investigating the long-term increase in chronic health issues, such as autoimmune disorders, autism, and obesity. Kennedy’s push for reform reflects a broader agenda that seeks to prioritise public health in the political discourse as the election approaches.

With the election just around the corner, Kennedy’s alignment with Trump highlights a significant shift in the political landscape, as he leverages his influence within the Republican framework to advocate for a healthier America.