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Democrats urge caution in battle over vaccines, RFK Jr.

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08.09.2025

Democrats are jumping into the fray to voice their disapproval about Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the broader debate of rolling back vaccines, which was announced in Florida this past week.

But after the public pushback on COVID-19 lockdowns and vaccines on the heels of the pandemic, some voices in the Democratic Party are urging restraint, even as public opinion leans toward them and Republicans show their own divisions.

After Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) announced this past week that the state would move to end all vaccine mandates, Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) expressed concern about the decision.

A day later, some Republicans were posing tough questions to Kennedy, the nation’s best known vaccine skeptic, during a contentious hearing that followed high-profile resignations at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some Democrats say the party is best off letting Republicans tussle on the issue, without getting in the way.

“Republicans spent a long time playing footsie with and entertaining fringe opinions on public health,” Democratic strategist Joel Payne said. "But now they have gone way over the top and have put those opinions in power, and I would anticipate a political price they'll have to pay for that.”

When Kennedy testified at the Senate Finance Committee hearing, Democrats predictably asked him tough questions. But Kennedy was also on the receiving end of pointed remarks from GOP senators.

“I support vaccines. I'm a doctor. Vaccines work,” Senate Republican Whip John........

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