Former President Donald Trump expressed cautious endorsement of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s proposal to eliminate fluoride from public water systems if he secures a second term. In an interview, Trump remarked, “Well, I haven’t talked to him about it yet, but it sounds OK to me. You know, it’s possible.”
Kennedy’s Aspirations in a Trump Administration
Trump has previously indicated that Kennedy would play a significant role in health care within his administration, particularly focusing on vaccine-related issues. Kennedy is known for promoting widely debunked conspiracy theories about vaccines.
Discussion on Vaccines
When questioned by media about the possibility of banning specific vaccines, Trump stated, “Well, I’m going to talk to (Kennedy) and talk to other people, and I’ll make a decision, but he’s a very talented guy and has strong views.”
Fluoride as an Issue
Kennedy recently claimed via social media that a Trump administration would “advise all U.S. water systems to remove fluoride from public water,” asserting that fluoride is linked to various health problems. He referred to the substance as “industrial waste,” although the CDC notes that fluoride occurs naturally in the environment, including in water and rocks.
Campaign Trail in Pennsylvania
At a recent rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania, where Trump is campaigning for crucial electoral votes, he reiterated the importance of addressing health issues. Polls show him in a tight race with Democratic nominee Kamala Harris as he prepares for upcoming stops in North Carolina and Georgia.
Fluoride’s Health Concerns
Kennedy has claimed that fluoride is associated with serious health conditions such as arthritis and bone cancer. The CDC endorses community water fluoridation as a cost-effective public health measure. However, excessive fluoride exposure can lead to skeletal fluorosis, and recent studies have suggested a correlation between high fluoride levels and reduced IQ in children.
Kennedy’s Controversial Theories
Kennedy has a track record of spreading unfounded conspiracy theories regarding the effects of chemicals in the environment, including claims that certain substances could influence gender identity. His rhetoric echoes that of other fringe theorists, like Alex Jones, who infamously claimed that chemicals in water were “turning the friggin’ frogs gay.”
Potential Health Portfolio for Kennedy
Both Trump and Kennedy have hinted at a broad health portfolio for Kennedy in a future administration. Kennedy indicated that Trump had suggested he would oversee key public health agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture.
Trump’s Vision for Health Care
At a rally in New York, Trump stated he would allow Kennedy to “go wild on health,” “go wild on the food,” and “go wild on medicines.” He emphasized that Kennedy would “have a big role in health care” and mentioned that he shares some of Kennedy’s strong views.
(Includes inputs from online sources)
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