Healthcare group urges RFK Jr to resign after remarks on cocaine and toilet seats

The Guardian World

by Victoria Bekiempis

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A prominent healthcare advocacy group has called for the resignation of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., following controversial remarks he made during a podcast appearance. In an interview on Theo Von’s *This Past Weekend* podcast, Kennedy downplayed COVID-19 risks and claimed, “I’m not scared of a germ. I used to snort cocaine off of toilet seats.” This statement has drawn sharp criticism, with Protect Our Care president urging him to step down in a stark one-word response: “Resign.” Kennedy’s appointment as Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary has been contentious due to his history of anti-vaccine activism. Despite these concerns, he was sworn into the role last year. His recent comments have further fueled debates about his suitability for the position, particularly given his track record of promoting unscientific views on public health. The remarks have sparked widespread outrage among health professionals and advocates. Critics argue that Kennedy’s dismissal of COVID-19 risks undermines public trust in government health guidance. His past behavior, including advocating for scientifically discredited health practices, has also raised questions about his credibility as a leader in the pandemic response. This controversy highlights broader concerns about leadership decisions during the COVID-19 crisis. It underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in positions that directly impact public health. As global vaccination efforts continue to face challenges, the credibility of health officials remains under intense scrutiny. Kennedy’s comments have not only drawn criticism from advocacy groups but also raised questions about the administration’s approach to addressing the pandemic. The situation also reflects the growing tension between politics and science in public health decision-making. Advocates argue that leaders must prioritize evidence-based policies to effectively address global health crises. In this case, Kennedy’s remarks have not only alienated key stakeholders but also cast doubt on the administration’s commitment to a coordinated COVID-19 response.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/13/2026