HHS Fires Senior Adviser Critical of COVID-19 Vaccines Amid Controversy

Steven J. Hatfill, a senior advisor at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) known for his criticism of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and advocacy for hydroxychloroquine as a treatment, was terminated from his position "for cause." Hatfill had served as an advisor during the first Trump administration and continued to publicize his opposition to mRNA vaccine technology and policies. HHS officials cited Hatfill for misrepresenting his role and failing to coordinate policy-making with leadership, while Hatfill claimed his dismissal was part of a "coup" against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., orchestrated by Kennedy's chief of staff. Hatfill was involved in producing a report used by the administration to justify ending funding for several mRNA vaccine projects. His firing follows controversy including previous allegations by a House subcommittee that he pressured the FDA to allow hydroxychloroquine access. Hatfill's departure reflects ongoing tensions within HHS under the current administration concerning pandemic response and vaccine policy.