NIH Scientist Retires Early, Cites Censorship Under RFK Jr.'s Leadership

Kevin Hall, a senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health, has announced his early retirement, citing censorship under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

After dedicating 21 years to the National Institutes of Health, Kevin Hall, a senior investigator, has decided to retire early. Hall expressed his disappointment in a social media post, stating that his decision was influenced by what he described as ‘censorship’ during his research on ultra-processed food addiction. Hall’s work has been pivotal in understanding the link between diets high in ultra-processed foods and chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity.

Initially, Hall was optimistic about Kennedy’s public stance on chronic illnesses and the American food system. However, he soon felt that his research was being suppressed because it did not align with the agency’s leadership narrative on ultra-processed food addiction. Despite his efforts to address these concerns with the agency’s leadership, Hall received no response.

This announcement comes shortly after Kennedy’s visit to FDA employees, where he reportedly discussed the influence of the ‘Deep State’ within federal agencies. Kennedy’s comments suggested a broader issue of institutional pressures affecting the operations of agencies like the FDA, which he described as a ‘sock puppet’ of the industries it regulates.

The NIH has not yet responded to requests for comment on Hall’s allegations. Hall’s early retirement and his claims of censorship highlight ongoing tensions within federal health agencies under the current administration.