Top HHS Spokesperson Resigns Over Measles Outbreak Disagreements

Thomas Corry stepped down two weeks into his role, citing clashes with RFK Jr. over the handling of a deadly measles outbreak in Texas.

Thomas Corry, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at HHS, resigned effective immediately after serving just two weeks in the role.
Corry reportedly disagreed with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his deputy over the department’s response to a growing measles outbreak in Texas.
The outbreak in Texas has infected at least 146 people and caused the first measles-related death in the U.S. in a decade, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals.
RFK Jr., a longtime vaccine skeptic, initially downplayed the outbreak but later published an op-ed acknowledging the importance of the MMR vaccine while maintaining that vaccination is a personal choice.
Kennedy’s leadership at HHS has faced criticism, with reports of delayed vaccine initiatives and staff changes since his confirmation.