Kaufman Discusses Vaccines
Cassidy expressed clear disappointment and dissatisfaction with Schwartz but was notably angry with Kaufman. Throughout the hearing, Kaufman attempted to retract his comments regarding vaccines; however, his responses lacked persuasiveness. Under questioning from Sanders, Kaufman acknowledged that he previously stated he would rather die than have his children vaccinated against the coronavirus, despite having recommended the vaccine to his wife’s mother.
When senators questioned him about his false claims related to the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, he pointed out that all three of his children had received it. Cassidy, a hepatologist who has treated patients suffering from severe liver damage caused by hepatitis B—some of whom tragically died from the infection—did not overlook this issue. “Why do you keep repeating such terrible lies?” Cassidy exclaimed, slamming his pencil angrily. Kaufman noted that he deleted the LinkedIn post containing his claims, justifying it by saying he was vague.
Kaufman’s Thoughts on mRNA Research
The senators also probed Kaufman for his perspective on mRNA vaccine technology. This technology is widely regarded as promising for rapidly creating new vaccines against emerging pathogens with pandemic potential. However, Kennedy undermined the technology, disseminating significant misinformation about mRNA vaccines. Last year, he faced intense backlash for canceling hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding aimed at developing mRNA vaccines for pandemic preparedness.
When asked about his stance on mRNA technology, Kaufman cryptically responded that he supports President Kennedy’s decision to cut funding for mRNA research, arguing that more investigation is needed before further support can occur. Kaufman’s puzzling explanation was that he did not want to back research on future applications of mRNA technology until more studies were conducted on the COVID-19 vaccine platforms.
Following this rationale, Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) remarked, “That means you can’t do two things at the same time,” summarizing his reaction to Kaufman’s argument as “incredible.” Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) also expressed confusion, stating, “I don’t understand your desire to investigate further, but it’s okay to cancel.”
After challenging Kaufman about the hepatitis B vaccine, Cassidy expressed being “perplexed” and “surprised” by Kaufman’s assertion that he supported halting mRNA research due to insufficient evidence.
Source: arstechnica.com