Bill Maher, the outspoken host of HBO’s *Real Time*, has added his voice to the growing chorus calling for the resignation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Maher, known for his often contrarian views, expressed his disappointment with Kennedy’s performance as HHS Secretary, stating that while he initially sympathized with Kennedy’s goals, he now believes Kennedy’s actions are simply ‘nutty’.
Maher’s criticism stems from Kennedy’s recent firing of 17 top officials at the CDC, including the agency’s director. This mass dismissal, according to Maher, has silenced dissenting voices within the agency and left only Kennedy’s perspective to prevail. He described Kennedy’s actions as an example of ‘pendulumism,’ where decisions never find a moderate balance.
This sentiment is echoed by over 1,000 current and former HHS employees who have signed a letter demanding Kennedy’s resignation, accusing him of installing ‘political ideologues’ in key positions. Maher’s criticism, however, carries a personal note; he admitted that it pains him to criticize Kennedy, whom he previously supported and even found likable.
During a segment on *Real Time*, CNN’s Kaitlan Collins highlighted Kennedy’s contentious Senate hearing, where both Democrats and Republicans questioned his decisions. She pointed to the cancellation of hundreds of millions of dollars in mRNA vaccine research as a specific point of contention, noting that this decision puts Kennedy at odds with President Trump’s stance. Despite this, Collins suggested that Kennedy’s job security is relatively strong due to Senate Republican support during his confirmation process.
Offering a counterpoint, Stephen Moore, a former Trump campaign economic advisor, defended Kennedy’s pushback against certain FDA regulations. Moore argued that the FDA’s stringent processes unnecessarily delay the release of crucial medications, potentially costing lives. He highlighted the need for quicker access to new treatments, particularly in areas like cancer, heart disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Ultimately, Maher’s stark condemnation underscores the growing concern over Kennedy’s leadership within the HHS. While acknowledging prior support for Kennedy’s intentions, Maher’s declaration that ‘he’s got to go’ reflects a significant shift in opinion and adds further pressure on the already embattled HHS Secretary.
