In an unprecedented move, over 15,000 physicians from across the United States have signed an open letter urging the Senate to reject Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) by former President Donald Trump.

The letter, described as a “national emergency,” condemns Kennedy’s appointment, labeling it a dangerous threat to public health and an insult to medical professionals nationwide.

“This appointment is an affront to the principles of public health, the tireless dedication of medical professionals, and the trust that millions of Americans place in the health care system,” the letter states.

The doctors, organized under the Committee to Protect Health Care, expressed outrage over Kennedy’s well-documented history of promoting anti-vaccine and anti-scientific beliefs.

“RFK Jr. has a well-documented history of spreading dangerous disinformation on vaccines and public health interventions, leaving vulnerable communities unprotected and placing millions of lives at risk. His appointment is a direct threat to the safety of our patients and the public at large,” the letter asserts.

The Committee to Protect Health Care is mobilizing its network to prevent the confirmation of Kennedy, calling on health care workers to contact their senators, email the American Medical Association, and reach out to professional organizations to block the nomination.

“This appointment is a slap in the face to every health care professional who has spent their lives working to protect patients from preventable illnesses and death,” the letter adds.

The open letter has already sparked heated debate, with MAGA supporters defending the nomination on social media while health care professionals and public health advocates express deep concern.

“This is a matter of life and death. We can do this. Lives are literally at stake,” the letter concludes, rallying opposition to what it calls a “reckless” and “dangerous” decision.