We undoubtedly live in dynamic and complex periods with significant implications concerning governance, society, and public policy. The recent national elections have concluded, revealing both the popular and electoral voice of the nation, sparking heightened anticipation regarding the potential transformations ahead. The governance mechanism of our country is exceptionally intricate, necessitating the delegation of responsibilities amongst informed deputies to effectively administer the president’s intentions. The newly elected President Trump has made some unconventional appointments, which are notably based more on loyalty rather than extensive expertise in their designated responsibilities.
Out of the many subjects of concern, we’ll pay specific attention to the healthcare industry, a sector with direct and inevitable implications for every citizen at some point in their lives. Those familiar with my commentary would remember my recurring concerns about our somewhat dystopian healthcare landscape, which unquestionably needs significant improvements. Trump has appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to head the Department of Health and Human Services, a colossal enterprise with a budget of $3 trillion, overseeing institutions such as FDA, NIH, CDC, CMMS that significantly shape the health of Americans. Despite the absence of any healthcare experience or training on Kennedy’s resume, his commitments to eliminate chronic diseases, root out corruption within the agency, and enable citizens to make informed healthcare decisions is commendable. Yet, as the common adage suggests, the real test lies in the execution, a topic for future discussions.
Kennedy, a well-known critic of vaccines, has supported theories implying links between vaccines and autism, as well as fluoridated water’s impact on IQ. However, such theories are based on selective reasoning derived from cherry-picked sources, without primarily considering the entire data set or the credibility of the sources.
Despite Kennedy’s historical stance against the COVID-19 restrictions at both the state and federal level, he now supports individuals’ right to choose vaccination. Major health agencies, including the World Health Organization, attribute the preservation of millions of lives globally to the implementation of these necessary measures. While the economic and lifestyle implications have been substantial, they have been justifiable due to the pandemic’s life-or-death nature.
Kennedy’s criticism extends beyond vaccines and includes resistance towards the current food nutrition labeling system, which facilitates informed decision-making for countless consumers daily. His proposal to dismantle the FDA’s nutrition department raises additional questions about his commitment to enhancing public health awareness.
However, on a positive note, Kennedy displays considerable interest in addressing the prevalent issues in our food supply and consumption habits, triggering obesity. His critique focuses on GLP-1 drugs as obesity treatment, seemingly disregarding their proven effectiveness against diabetes and their contribution to reducing cardiovascular ailments, kidney failures, and neurocognitive decline. Kennedy’s contention that pharmaceutical companies are benefiting disproportionately from these drugs could be indicative of his view on the pharmaceutical industry.
Kennedy advocates a significant portion of the NIH research budget should be redirected towards preventive, alternative, and holistic health treatments. Though his words could be seen as undermining the value and purpose of the NIH-funded basic science, these studies essentially form the bedrock of our understanding and management of diseases. The NIH stands as the unquestionable torchbearer in global biomedical research.
The recent election outcomes have unequivocally demonstrated the American sentiment. Under President Biden’s leadership, our nation’s economy has flourished in a manner that is envied globally. Noticeable decreases in inflation and interest rates, a slowdown in the escalation of healthcare and drug prices, and reduced gasoline prices reflect significant improvements. Additionally, the inevitable decarbonization of our economy, a key contribution to the welfare of our future generations, is significantly underway.
However, due to the prolonged timelines involved between execution and tangible results, the average American is yet to reap these benefits. Paradoxically, these flourishing conditions are likely to come to fruition during Trump’s tenure, potentially leading the less analytic segment of the population to attribute these outcomes to the wrong source. Trump’s leadership, which prioritizes personal allegiance over constitutional fidelity, coupled with an apparent dearth of expertise concerning the complexities of government agencies and the military, suggests that we, the citizens, can anticipate an eventful journey ahead.
Yet, the power of our democratic system enables the American electorate to reevaluate and alter their collective mindset, a fundamental right exercised through elections. Alluding to the subtle but significant nuances of democracy, it acts as a reminder that while we navigate the complex political landscape, the real power resides with us, the people.