Trump Administration Considers Executive Order on Vaccines and Autism

Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is spearheading the administration's efforts to pursue new studies. White House spokesman Kush Desai issued a statement emphasizing the administration's commitment to delivering on this presidential priority with "Gold Standard Science" for parents with concerns about vaccinations.

However, the push for this executive order comes amid internal political concerns. Some of Trump's advisors have reportedly urged Kennedy to avoid vaccine-related issues until after the November midterm elections, fearing it could harm Republican candidates. Despite these concerns, Trump has continued to privately press Kennedy for updates on vaccine research and potential links to autism.

Kennedy, a known anti-vaccine activist prior to joining the administration, has previously vowed to expand government study of autism. However, his earlier attempts to overhaul vaccine policy and revamp a national advisory panel faced significant pushback and legal challenges.