RFK Jr cancels $500m in mRNA vaccine development in the US

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known vaccine skeptic, has canceled $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development in the U.S. since taking office. This move is part of broader changes he’s made to vaccine regulations, signaling a shift in how the government approaches vaccine research and approval.

Editor’s Note: This decision could slow down advancements in mRNA vaccine technology, which has been crucial in fighting diseases like COVID-19. Critics worry it might hinder future pandemic preparedness and public health innovation, while supporters of Kennedy’s stance may see it as a win for vaccine skepticism. Either way, it’s a big deal for science and health policy.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has canceled contracts worth nearly $500 million related to mRNA vaccines, signaling a major shift in his organization's stance or strategy regarding these vaccines. The move could have significant financial and political implications, especially given Kennedy's vocal criticism of vaccine mandates and mRNA technology.

Editor’s Note: This story matters because RFK Jr. is a prominent figure in the anti-vaccine movement, and his decision to scrap these contracts could further fuel debates over vaccine safety and government health policies. It also raises questions about the financial and logistical fallout for companies involved in mRNA vaccine production. Whether you support or oppose his views, this move could ripple through public health discussions and influence future vaccine-related decisions.

The Trump administration, under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is canceling 22 contracts worth $500 million that were aimed at developing mRNA vaccines. Additionally, the government is scaling back further federal funding for mRNA technology.

Editor’s Note: This move could slow down advancements in mRNA vaccine technology, which has been crucial in fighting diseases like COVID-19. Cutting funding might delay future medical breakthroughs and limit preparedness for future health crises. It’s a big deal because mRNA tech isn’t just about COVID—it has potential for treating other diseases, too.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is scaling back its mRNA vaccine development efforts under its Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), signaling a shift in priorities or strategy for government-backed vaccine research.

Editor’s Note: This move could indicate a pivot in how the U.S. government allocates resources for vaccine development, especially after the rapid mRNA advancements during the COVID-19 pandemic. While it doesn’t necessarily mean mRNA research is stopping altogether, it suggests a reevaluation of federal funding priorities—which could impact future pandemic preparedness or private-sector vaccine innovation.

A government watchdog (the GAO) found that the Trump administration violated federal law—the Impoundment Control Act—by withholding and canceling billions in grants meant for scientific research. The act requires Congress, not the executive branch, to have final say over funding decisions.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just bureaucratic drama—it’s about who controls taxpayer money. By sidestepping Congress, the administration undermined a key check on executive power, potentially setting a risky precedent for future funding freezes. For scientists, delayed or canceled grants can derail critical research.