RFK Jr. says gun violence is not a public health crisis
WASHINGTON — Today, GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization founded by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, released the following statement after Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated he does not believe gun violence is a public health crisis, nor does he believe that researching gun violence is important. In 2024, the surgeon general declared gun violence a public health crisis and issued an advisory opinion outlining the dangers that it poses to the health and wellbeing of our country.
“It is a fact that gun violence is a public health crisis. It is the leading cause of death for kids in our country, and nearly 46,000 Americans die from gun violence every single year. To have someone running the Department of Health and Human Services who cannot acknowledge that is absurd and unacceptable,” said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown. “In recent years we’ve made incredible progress in the fight against gun violence, including investments in the federal funding of research after 25 years without it. As a result, gun crime is declining in cities across the country. We urge senators–especially those who supported the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a historic step forward–to oppose Kennedy’s nomination. Doing anything else jeopardizes public safety and the progress we’ve made.”
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s full answers in response to questions for the record:
Question 79. Do you believe that firearm violence is a public health crisis? Response: No.
Question 80. Do you believe HHS should support research into firearm violence and firearm injury prevention? Response: I believe HHS can explore solutions for the behavioral health and substance abuse epidemic without compromising sacred rights and freedoms.
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