Vaccine Maker Stocks Fall as Trump Chooses RFK Jr. to Lead HHS

Introduction

On Saturday, January 16, 2021, President Donald Trump announced his intention to appoint Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This news sent shockwaves through the pharmaceutical industry, as RFK Jr. is a prominent anti-vaccine activist. As a result, the stock prices of several major vaccine makers, including Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson, fell sharply in after-hours trading.

RFK Jr.'s Anti-Vaccine Views

RFK Jr. is the son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former President John F. Kennedy. He is a well-known environmental activist and author. However, he has also been a vocal critic of vaccines for many years.

RFK Jr. has claimed that vaccines are linked to autism and other childhood disorders. He has also accused the pharmaceutical industry of suppressing research that shows the dangers of vaccines.

RFK Jr.'s views are not supported by the vast majority of scientists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that there is no link between vaccines and autism.

The Impact on Vaccine Maker Stocks

RFK Jr.'s appointment to HHS has raised concerns among investors about the future of the vaccine industry. Some analysts believe that RFK Jr. could use his position to push for policies that would limit the use of vaccines.

This could have a significant impact on the earnings of vaccine makers. In 2020, the global vaccine market was worth an estimated $58 billion. However, if RFK Jr. succeeds in implementing his anti-vaccine agenda, this market could shrink significantly.

The stock prices of vaccine makers have already reacted negatively to the news of RFK Jr.'s appointment. In after-hours trading on January 16, 2021, Pfizer's stock price fell by 5%, Moderna's stock price fell by 7%, and Johnson & Johnson's stock price fell by 3%.

The Future of Vaccines

It is too early to say what impact RFK Jr.'s appointment to HHS will have on the vaccine industry. However, his anti-vaccine views are likely to make investors cautious about investing in vaccine makers.

The future of vaccines is uncertain. However, the CDC continues to recommend that all children and adults receive recommended vaccinations.