U.S. Health Secretary RFK Jr. Visits Argentina for Key Talks

Buenos Aires, Argentina – U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) arrived in Buenos Aires on May 25 for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening U.S.-Argentina relations. He will meet with President Javier Milei and other significant government officials including Minister of Health Mario Lugones.

According to a U.S. Embassy press release, Kennedy plans to hold a “substantive conversation” with Milei regarding collaborations to advance healthcare reform and deregulation. Elements of Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) campaign will also be on the agenda, which includes tackling chronic diseases and exploring autism research.

Kennedy, noted for his anti-vaccine activism, has drawn criticism for his views, particularly his claims connecting vaccines to various health issues. Both he and Milei have previously expressed skepticism towards scientific consensus, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In October 2021, Milei previously raised concerns about vaccine testing and later chose to receive a vaccine due to international travel obligations, stating, “What do I do? How can I make a living?”

Additionally, Kennedy’s meetings will include discussions with Minister of Deregulation Federico Sturzenegger and Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to explore bilateral health policies.

RFK Jr. has notable political lineage as the son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of President John F. Kennedy. He shifted from being a lifelong Democrat to running as an independent candidate in 2023, eventually endorsing Donald Trump’s presidential bid in 2024, a move criticized by some relatives.

The significance of this visit is underscored by the backdrop of ongoing global health debates. Throughout the trip, Kennedy aims to not only bolster U.S.-Argentina ties, but also promote key health priorities as both countries navigate deregulation and healthcare discussions.