Robert F. Kennedy Jr.Getty Images

Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the late Irish American President John F. Kennedy, has issued a scathing takedown of her cousin Robert F. Kennedy, Jr as the US Senate prepares to confirm or deny his nomination to become the US Secretary of Health and Human Services.

As President Donald Trump begins his term in the White House, his selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has ignited significant controversy.

RFK Jr., an environmental lawyer and known vaccine skeptic, has been a polarizing figure due to his claims linking vaccines to autism, a theory widely debunked by the scientific community.

Caroline Kennedy, former US Ambassador to Australia, has taken an unprecedented step by publicly opposing her cousin's nomination.

 In a letter addressed to US Senators - which she recorded herself reading and shared on social media on January 28 -  she described RFK Jr. as a "predator" and "unqualified" for the HHS role.

She further criticized his vaccine skepticism, highlighting that while he discouraged vaccinations publicly, he ensured his own children were vaccinated.

In a six-minute video, Caroline Kennedy elaborated on her concerns, stating that RFK Jr. has "misrepresented himself" and that his views on vaccines are "dangerous."

She emphasized the potential harm his leadership could cause to public health initiatives, especially in the wake of recent health crises. 

The nomination has also faced criticism from the scientific community. Dozens of Nobel laureates have urged the Senate to reject RFK Jr.'s appointment, citing his anti-scientific positions on vaccines and nutrition. They argue that his leadership could undermine public trust in health agencies and jeopardize essential health programs. 

Despite the backlash, some political figures have expressed support for RFK Jr.'s nomination. Senator Rand Paul told the New York Post that he believes that his appointment could help rebuild public trust in government health advice, suggesting that his outsider perspective might bring necessary reforms. 

The Senate Finance Committee will begin its hearings on Wednedsay, where RFK Jr.'s past statements and positions are expected to be thoroughly examined. His performance during these hearings will be crucial, especially given the slim Republican majority in the Senate. Any defections within the party could jeopardize his confirmation, Barron's reports.

This internal family conflict has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the broader national debate over vaccine safety and public health policy.