Key facts
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. admitted that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is withholding information from certain journalists.
- Kennedy stated that HHS is "unwilling to talk to you" about important topics due to their "predictable bias."
- The admission follows a New York Times report suggesting Kennedy is disengaged from his agency.
- Journalists have reported unfulfilled Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to HHS, with some not even acknowledged.
- Kennedy had previously promised "radical transparency" and to make information more accessible.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), has acknowledged that the department is withholding information from select journalists, citing their "predictable bias." This statement comes after a New York Times report suggested that Kennedy is disengaged from his agency's operations.
Journalists have reportedly faced difficulties obtaining information from HHS, with multiple Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests going unanswered or unacknowledged, despite agency policy requiring responses within 10 days. This lack of transparency extends to requests from citizens and lawmakers, although a leader from Kennedy's anti-vaccine group, Children's Health Defense, has reportedly had their FOIA requests fulfilled.
Kennedy's admission appears to contradict his earlier promises of "radical transparency" upon entering his role. In April 2025, he had stated plans to restore FOIA offices and make information more accessible. The current situation, where the agency appears to be selectively blacklisting reporters, raises questions about his commitment to open governance.