The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services caused widespread outrage this week after making controversial comments about autism that many have labeled as offensive and damaging.
During an April 16 press conference, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made remarks that many advocates and observers viewed as deeply insensitive. His statements, delivered from his high-profile role within the federal government, have sparked sharp backlash from disability rights supporters and members of the public alike.
Speaking about children with autism, Kennedy painted a bleak picture, calling the condition a “tragedy” and claiming it “destroys families” and children themselves.
He also declared that kids with autism are unlikely to contribute to society and that “many of them will never use a toilet unassisted.” He asserted that these children had regressed due to environmental exposures and added, “We are doing this to our children, and we need to put an end to it.”
His remarks did not include any cited data or scientific backing, drawing criticism for being inflammatory rather than informative.
The comments were especially jarring given Kennedy’s role, sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch in the Oval Office, where he is expected to uphold and advocate for public health policies that serve all Americans, including individuals with disabilities.
Public reaction was swift and severe across multiple platforms. On YouTube, one person wrote, “This is a disastrous message. None of this is true.” Another person on X questioned, “What in the world is he saying?”
Additional criticism came from another X commenter who stated, “He was insulting, rude, disrespectful and disparaging of folks with Autism.” A viewer on Instagram simply expressed disbelief, “Wow! Can you believe this statement?”
Another Instagram comment added, “What is he talking about 😭😭😭 [sic].” The criticism extended to Facebook, where one person wrote, “Can verify that he’s wrong!”
Another echoed the disappointment with, “So disappointed in him – really thought I would support him as a presidential candidate when he threw his name in. Now, never.” One netizen stated, “Heartbreaking and so not true! 😡”
The long-term impact of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s speech about autism on his role and public trust in the Department of Health and Human Services remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, a moment featuring Kennedy’s wife recently caused a stir online. As reported previously, Donald Trump made a striking entrance at the UFC 314 on April 13, 2025, in Miami, Florida, with his two grandchildren, warmly greeting the crowd. However, he pointedly ignored one individual, making the snub unmistakable.
A fan comments on Donald Trump’s actions | Source: X/@Fludded
The moment he walked into the arena, the crowd burst into chants of “USA,” echoing throughout the venue. As he moved toward the front row, the excitement didn’t fade — it only grew.
A fan comments on Donald Trump’s actions | Source: X/@LadyForProgress
He walked down the aisle, shaking hands with some attendees and waving to others. When he reached the front row, he clasped hands with Kennedy and offered him a brief hug.
Next to Kennedy stood his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, who extended her hand in greeting. But to her surprise, Trump looked past her and turned his attention to someone else nearby, leaving her gesture unanswered.
The moment quickly gained traction beyond the arena, drawing swift attention across social media platforms. One person commented, “Totally ignoring RFK’s wife.” Another questioned, “How do you just let someone disrespect your wife like that?”
As reactions continued to pour in, many viewers quickly expressed confusion and disappointment over the interaction. One person wondered, “Why he dis Cheryl like that? [sic]” while another asked, “Why did he ignore the lady with JFK junior? Didn’t say hello.”
Someone else remarked, “How’s he left Bobby Kennedy’s lady hanging… [sic].” Others commented on her expression, with one noting, “She looked like she was gonna cry,” and another calling the moment “awkward.”
Still, past reports suggest Hines has found ease within those political circles. In November 2024, it was reported that she appeared cheerful and at ease at Mar-a-Lago on election night.
A source also reportedly spotted her again at the America First Policy Institute gala, engaging with guests at the exclusive club. “Cheryl was talking to everyone, including Donald Trump,” shared the insider, adding that she seemed to be “playing nice with MAGA world.”
The moment marked a sharp contrast to her earlier stance. Reports previously revealed that Hines had openly struggled with her husband’s endorsement of Trump. Kennedy admitted the situation was difficult for her, describing it as “the opposite of what she would want to do.”
He explained that she only supported him out of love and had not encouraged the decision, adding that her unease had been the dominant emotion throughout.
Outside the political spotlight, Hines is an actress best known for playing Cheryl David in “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” a role that earned her two Emmy nominations. She and Kennedy wed in August 2014.
Cheryl Hines, Robert F. and Ethel Kennedy, as seen in a post dated August 2, 2024 | Instagram/ _cherylhines
Their wedding took place at the Kennedy family compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, with close friends and relatives, including Kennedy’s mother, Ethel, attending the private ceremony. However, that elegant setting wasn’t their original plan.
The couple had initially considered a simple civil ceremony at City Hall. It was only after Hines mentioned it to Ethel that the idea shifted. Ethel asked, “Well, don’t you want to get married here so we can all be a part of it?”
That heartfelt question prompted a change, leading to a more intimate celebration at the family estate. The bride wore a strapless, pearl-beaded Romona Keveza gown — unknowingly choosing a style that echoed the grace of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
Cheryl Hines on her wedding day as seen in a post dated August 2, 2024 | Instagram/ _cherylhines
The ceremony held charm and spontaneity, especially when Ethel’s dog unexpectedly wandered down the aisle ahead of the bride. That day marked the celebrity’s official entry into one of the nation’s most storied families.
Years later, the memories of that joyful occasion remained vivid as she and Kennedy reached a decade of marriage. To celebrate their milestone in 2024, Hines shared a touching tribute on social media, reflecting on their wedding and the loved ones who were there to share it with them.
She recalled dancing with her father, her brother Chris, and her niece and nephew, Saoirse and Michael — some of whom had since passed, making the memory all the more meaningful. Looking back on their years together, the 59-year-old Hollywood star expressed deep appreciation for her husband and the life they created:
“You have given me a life I could’ve never imagined, full of love, laughter, joy, and adventure. In my darkest hours, you bring me light. I love you.”
In February 2025, she shared a Valentine’s Day tribute on Instagram, posting a photo of the couple with the caption “Happy Valentine’s Day,” followed by two heart emojis.
From a public snub at a high-profile event to warm moments shared with her husband, Cheryl Hines remains a figure of interest both on and off the screen. Her evolving presence in political circles has sparked conversation, especially given her earlier discomfort with that world.
Yet, beyond the headlines, she embraces her roles as a wife and an actress with quiet grace. As she and Kennedy celebrate a decade together, their journey reflects a balance of deep personal devotion and persistent public scrutiny.