FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 19, 2024
Parker Williamson, Press Secretary
Iowans tell Senator Ernst: Vote NO on RFK Jr.
Des Moines, Iowa — A group of concerned Iowans gathered at Senator Joni Ernst’s Des Moines office Wednesday to express their strong opposition to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ‘s nomination for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Karen Merrill, a pharmacist from Ankeny that attended the meeting, believes the most troubling thing about Kennedy is that he doesn’t listen to experts and medical professionals when it comes to vaccines.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to protect public health. They not only safeguard individuals from preventable diseases, but they contribute to the overall well-being of our communities,” Merrill said. “Community pharmacies were an integral part of the Federal government’s strategy to end the COVID-19 global pandemic by providing essential vaccinations, often in rural and underserved areas. We need leadership that recognizes proven science, supports medical research, and works to improve public health for all.”
The group appreciated that Sen. Ernst wanted to “thoroughly vet” Trump’s nominees when it came to the Defense Department Secretary, but was concerned at how easily she seemed to fall in line when pressured.
“It’s shocking to see conversations happen where we’re asking if someone is qualified to be a cabinet member,” Lori Hunt from Des Moines said. “Shouldn’t that be a given for whoever is nominated?”
Constituents urged the Iowa Senator to uphold the values of the communities she represents, and to not fold under pressure on RFK’s nomination.
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