As measles spreads in South Carolina, RFK Jr’s allies work to gut vaccine laws
Activists who dispute safety of vaccines are pushing to limit immunization requirements in schools
TL;DR
- Groups linked to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are lobbying against vaccine mandates in over 20 U.S. states.
- This campaign coincides with a significant rise in measles cases across the country.
- Doctors warn that weakening or eliminating vaccine mandates will lead to lower vaccination rates, more outbreaks, and increased illness and death.
- Activists argue that vaccine mandates violate personal freedom and often use misinformation to support their claims.
- School immunization requirements are considered crucial for maintaining herd immunity and preventing the spread of diseases like measles and pertussis.
- The Medical Freedom Act Coalition, formed by 15 organizations including those affiliated with Kennedy, is advocating for legislation to prohibit medical mandates.
- Despite warnings from health officials, some groups continue to dispute the severity of measles and the safety of vaccines.
- The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in decades, with over 1,100 cases reported so far in 2026.