Have RFK and MAHA really changed American views on vaccines?

Vaccine policy in the US is something of an ideological battleground. Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is a vaccine sceptic, and since taking office he has attempted to remake US vaccine policy. In March a judge blocked his proposal to cut the number of jabs that are recommended for kids.

At the same time, last year saw the worst measles outbreak in the US in decades. There were more than 2000 cases last year, and three people died. There have been more than 1500 cases so far in 2026.

There’s a lot going on, so it’s possible the public’s views on vaccination are shifting.

A new poll published by online news site Politico added a big claim into the mix. According to the headline “more Americans doubt vaccine safety than trust it”.

But is that what the survey actually found?

Dr David Higgins, a paediatrician and public health assistant professor who writes a Substack called Community Immunity, explains why he believes the headline is misleading.

If you've seen a number in the news you think we should take a look at, email [email protected]

Presenter: Charlotte McDonald Sound engineer: Neil Churchill Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown Editor: Richard Vadon