Fluoride is recognized for its ability to enhance dental health by strengthening teeth and reducing cavities, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does so by replacing minerals lost due to normal wear and tear. The inclusion of low levels of fluoride in drinking water has been hailed as one of the major public health achievements of the previous century.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made statements on the social media platform X, claiming various health effects linked to fluoride. Among these claims, Kennedy asserted that on January 20, the Trump administration would advise all U.S. water systems to eliminate fluoride from public water, stating that Trump and his wife, Melania, aim to Make America Healthy Again—a slogan frequently associated with Trump and linked by Kennedy to him.
It remains unclear whether Kennedy’s statements were discussed with Trump or his aides. The Trump campaign did not provide a direct response, and a Kennedy spokesperson did not reply when asked for comment. Danielle Alvarez, a senior advisor for the Trump campaign, mentioned that President Trump is focusing on the upcoming Tuesday election despite receiving various policy ideas.
The unexpected social media post over the weekend highlighted the unpredictable policy announcements characteristic of Trump’s presidency, where policies were often announced on platforms like Twitter at any time. Furthermore, it underscored concerns among experts regarding Kennedy, who has been known for promoting discredited vaccine safety theories, potentially having influence over U.S. public health policy.
The practice of water fluoridation to prevent tooth decay was endorsed by federal officials in 1950, and its promotion persisted after fluoride toothpaste entered the market years later. Despite fluoridation’s various sources, drinking water remains the primary source for Americans, according to researchers. In 2015, officials lowered the recommended fluoride levels in drinking water to address fluorosis, a condition causing splotchy teeth that had become more common among U.S. children.
In August, a federal agency concluded with moderate confidence that a link exists between higher fluoride exposure levels and lower IQs in children. The National Toxicology Program’s conclusion stemmed from studies showing fluoride levels about double the recommended limit for drinking water. A federal judge cited this study while mandating the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to further regulate fluoride in drinking water. U.S. District Judge Edward Chen noted it is uncertain whether typical fluoride levels added to water are responsible for lower IQ in kids but emphasized mounting research suggesting unreasonable risks. He directed the EPA to take measures to mitigate these risks, though specific actions were not outlined.
In the related social media post, Kennedy tagged Michael Connett, the lead attorney for the environmental advocacy group Food & Water Watch, which is the plaintiff in the referenced lawsuit.
Kennedy’s anti-vaccine organization has pending litigation against several news outlets, including The Associated Press, accusing them of antitrust law violations in efforts identifying misinformation, particularly concerning COVID-19 and related vaccines. While Kennedy is on leave from the group, he remains listed as an attorney in the lawsuit.
Kennedy’s role if Trump secures a win on Tuesday remains uncertain. Recently, Kennedy indicated that Trump requested he “reorganize” several U.S. agencies, including the CDC, the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and agencies within the Department of Agriculture.
Currently, Kennedy, a former independent presidential candidate, has emerged as a significant supporter of Trump. Trump frequently highlights his association with Kennedy, a member of a notable Democratic family, as Kennedy is the son of former Attorney General Robert Kennedy and the nephew of President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy accompanied Trump on campaign travels and spoke at rallies in Michigan and Wisconsin.
On a recent Saturday, Trump mentioned giving Kennedy the freedom to tackle various issues, excluding oil policy, stating Kennedy’s interest in health-related areas, including women’s and men’s health, and child welfare.
