RFK Jr. Accused of 'Lying to Congress' Over Apparent Flipped Stance on Vaccines: 'Did You Lie on All Those Podcasts?'

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was accused of contradicting himself on vaccines in a heated exchange during his senate confirmation hearing Wednesday.

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) challenged the Secretary of Health and Human Services nominee on past statements that appeared to be at odds with his sworn testimony.

During the exchange, Wyden referenced past podcast interviews in which Kennedy said, "No vaccine is safe and effective" and expressed regret over vaccinating his children. Yet, under oath during the hearing, Kennedy denied being anti-vaccine and pointed out that his children are vaccinated.

"All of these things cannot be true," Wyden pressed. "So are you lying to Congress today when you say you are pro-vaccine, or did you lie on all those podcasts?"

Kennedy fired back, claiming his remarks had been taken out of context. He insisted he had intended to clarify that no vaccine is safe and effective for every person but was interrupted before completing his point.

Wyden went on to highlight Kennedy's history of vaccine opposition, citing a 2021 petition Kennedy filed with the FDA seeking to block public access to COVID-19 vaccines. Kennedy defended his actions, arguing the petition specifically opposed recommending vaccines for young children without scientific justification.

The tense hearing was briefly interrupted by protestors, underscoring the controversy surrounding Kennedy's vaccine stance as he continues his campaign for the presidency.