Former Trump surgeon general says “people are going to die” after RFK Jr. halts some mRNA vaccine research

Former Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams, who served during the first Trump administration, recently spoke out against the decision to halt around $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the cancellation of 22 mRNA vaccine projects, claiming that they were ineffective in protecting against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and the flu. He stated that the funds would be redirected towards safer and more broadly effective vaccine platforms.

Dr. Adams, appearing on CBS News’ “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” strongly disagreed with Kennedy’s assertions about mRNA vaccines. He emphasized the significant impact of mRNA technology in saving lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, with millions benefiting from Pfizer and Moderna’s mRNA vaccines. Adams credited mRNA technology as a crucial component of Operation Warp Speed, which accelerated the development of COVID-19 vaccines. He highlighted that relying on older vaccine technology could have resulted in a significant delay in vaccine development.

Former President Trump also expressed support for Operation Warp Speed, acknowledging it as a remarkable achievement regardless of political affiliation. Dr. Adams, who played a role in the initiative, expressed concern over the decision to cut funding for mRNA vaccine research. He emphasized the versatility of mRNA technology in developing vaccines and treatments for various diseases beyond COVID-19, including cancer, HIV, flu, and Zika virus. Adams warned that the funding cuts could impede progress in a promising area of modern medicine, potentially leading to loss of life.

In response to a recent shooting outside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) buildings in Atlanta, Dr. Adams criticized Secretary Kennedy for his handling of the situation. He expressed disappointment in Kennedy’s tepid response to the incident, emphasizing the importance of unequivocally condemning violence. Adams raised concerns about the impact of inflammatory rhetoric on escalating tensions and called for strong leadership in times of crisis.

Reflecting on the events, Dr. Adams underscored the need for responsible leadership in public health emergencies. He emphasized the importance of denouncing violence and supporting those working to protect public health. Adams shared that CDC personnel reached out to him for support following the shooting, highlighting their fear and uncertainty in the face of potential threats.

As the debate over mRNA vaccine development continues, Dr. Adams remains a vocal advocate for the technology’s potential to save lives and advance medical science. He urges policymakers to prioritize research and innovation in healthcare to address current and future public health challenges effectively.