## Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: Trump's Health Pick Advocates for Fluoride Removal from Drinking Water
### Expertise and Experience
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) is an environmental activist and attorney who has long been an advocate for removing fluoride from drinking water. He has written extensively on the subject, most notably in his book "Thimerosal: Let the Science Speak." Kennedy is the son of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of former President John F. Kennedy.
### Fluoride Removal Advocacy
Kennedy's advocacy against water fluoridation stems from his belief that fluoride is a neurotoxin that can have harmful effects on human health. He cites studies that have linked fluoride exposure to a variety of health problems, including IQ deficits, thyroid dysfunction, and bone fractures.
Kennedy has also argued that water fluoridation is unethical because it involves the involuntary medication of the population. He believes that individuals should have the right to choose whether or not to consume fluoride.
### Trump Administration Appointment
In 2018, President Donald Trump appointed Kennedy to a panel that would review the safety of mandatory childhood vaccines. However, Kennedy was removed from the panel after he made public statements questioning the safety of vaccines.
Despite his removal from the vaccine safety panel, Kennedy continues to advocate for the removal of fluoride from drinking water. He believes that fluoride is a "toxic chemical" that should not be added to the public water supply.
### Opposition to Fluoride Removal
Kennedy's advocacy for fluoride removal has drawn opposition from public health officials and the dental community. They argue that water fluoridation is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially in children.
Opponents of fluoride removal also point out that many studies have found no evidence of harmful health effects from fluoride exposure. They believe that Kennedy's claims are based on cherry-picked data and unscientific fear-mongering.