Trump administration attempts coup of the Advisory Committees on Immunization Practices

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Media Relations

Statement from APHA Executive Director Dr. Georges C. Benjamin, MD

The Trump administration's action to "retire" all members of ACIP and install a new slate, instead of allowing people to finish their term, is a coup. Today’s ACIP members are some of the most qualified individuals to evaluate vaccines. They possess deep understanding of science and were vetted for conflicts of interest prior to appointment. Removing all ACIP members at once is not how democracies work and it’s not good for the health of the nation. RFK says he wants to restore trust and transparency. This action immediately raises concern over the ability of any slate of committee members appointed by the Trump administration to be viewed as impartial to RFK's views on any decision, and therefore their actions will be suspect and likely mistrusted.

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