RFK Jr.'s Controversial Comments on Autism Spark Outrage: 'They’ll Never Pay Taxes, Hold a Job, or Go on a Date'

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed secretary of health and human services, has faced criticism for comments made during his first press conference following his appointment by President Donald Trump. In reaction to a recent CDC study indicating that 3% of children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism, Kennedy described the increase in cases as an “epidemic” and pledged to uncover the “environmental causes” linked to the condition. Kennedy, who has previously advocated a discredited theory suggesting that vaccines cause autism, rejected the notion that the rise in diagnoses is simply due to experts gaining a better understanding of the disorder.

“One of the things that I think that we need to move away from today is this ideology that…the autism prevalence increase, the relentless increases, are simply artifacts of better diagnoses, better recognition or changing diagnostic criteria," he said. “This epidemic denial has become a feature in mainstream media.”

Kennedy is also facing criticism for the exaggerated, yet clearly inaccurate, statements he made about the lives of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

"Autism destroys families, and more importantly, it destroys our greatest resource, which is our children. These are children who should not be suffering like this," he said. “These are kids who will never pay taxes. They'll never hold a job. They'll never play baseball. They'll never write a poem. They'll never go out on a date. Many of them will never use a toilet unassisted."

During the press conference, Kennedy revealed that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is gearing up to initiate new research aimed at “pinpointing the specific environmental toxins linked to [autism].” In a statement made on April 15, after the CDC report was released, Kennedy expressed that the HHS is optimistic about having “answers” by September. However, numerous experts argue that this timeframe is insufficient, particularly given that autism research has been a focus for the medical and scientific communities for many years.

"We may have hundreds, if not thousands, of different neurogenetic factors that in combination with complicated environmental interactions influence presentations of autism," Zachary Warren, a pediatric psychiatrist and autism researcher at Vanderbilt University, told NPR.

"As a clinician, I wish I had better — and, quite frankly, simpler — answers for my families," he added. "But autism isn't a single thing; it is a word we use in an attempt to capture a spectrum of behavioral strengths, differences, and vulnerabilities in order to help optimally support children."

Difference is normal. Neurotypicals need to figure that out.

People with autism are lawyers, doctors, engineers, scientists, and teachers, play professional sports, and make incredible music. JFK Jr. is an ableist and a bigot. I feel sorry for him.

— Patricia Romero 🟦 (@EchoChoirBreach) April 17, 2025

While Lori said "I was appalled to hear JFK's comments on the future for autistic kids. It was uneducated and false. I do think it's important to look into why the autism rates have skyrocketed. I do appreciate his work on cleaning up our food. But this? This was wrong."

I was appalled to hear JFK's comments on the future for autistic kids. It was uneducated and false. I do think it's important to look into why the autism rates have skyrocketed. I do appreciate his work on cleaning up our food. But this? This was wrong.

— Lori (LMNLA) (@Arielkay2015) April 17, 2025

Opinion: Kennedy’s Views on Autism Are Oversimplified and Misguided

When Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently called autism an "epidemic" and claimed people with autism "will never pay taxes, hold a job, or go on a date," his words were not just wrong—they were harmful. Autism is a spectrum, and every person with it has a different experience. Some need more support, while others live fully independent lives. To say that individuals with autism are doomed to a life of isolation is simply inaccurate and unfair.

Kennedy’s use of the term "epidemic" is misleading. Yes, autism diagnoses have increased, but that’s because we’re better at recognizing it—not because the condition is out of control. The conversation about autism has evolved, and with it, so has our understanding of the condition.

Many people with autism, like Temple Grandin, are leading successful careers and making meaningful contributions to society. Their stories challenge the damaging idea that autism limits what individuals can achieve. Moreover, suggesting that people with autism "will never go on a date" is not only false—it’s deeply disrespectful. People with autism have relationships just like anyone else. They love, form friendships, and build fulfilling lives.

Kennedy’s comments ignore the progress we’ve made in understanding autism and supporting those who live with it. Instead of promoting fear and misunderstanding, we need leaders who embrace inclusivity and recognize the strengths of individuals with autism. What they need isn’t pity or judgment—it’s respect, empathy, and opportunities to thrive.

Rather than focusing on what people with autism can’t do, let’s focus on what they can. With the right support, people with autism can live fulfilling, independent lives. It’s time we recognize their potential, not reinforce outdated stereotypes. The future should be one where individuals with autism are seen for their abilities, not defined by their diagnosis.

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