Trump’s War on Vaccines Is Putting Our Kids at Risk

The United States declared measles eliminated in 2000, meaning the disease was no longer continuously spreading here. Today, measles is back, and misinformation and politics are helping fuel its return.

Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, a physician who voted to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary, recently condemned President Trump’s claims questioning the safety of the combined MMR vaccine. Cassidy called Trump’s comments “crazy” and “stupid,” warning that undermining confidence in vaccines could have tragic consequences.

The numbers tell the story. During Trump’s first term, measles cases rose from 86 in 2016 to more than 1,200 in 2019, with more than 1,800 cases reported over his four years. During Biden’s presidency, reported cases fell dramatically, with 241 cases during his term. Now, during Trump’s second term, more than 5,000 cases have been reported, with another 1,000 expected by the end of 2026.

Pennsylvania has already reported 310 measles cases this year, 90% involving unvaccinated individuals. Fortunately, Westmoreland County has reported no measles cases since 2000.

But we cannot take that protection for granted. Most Westmoreland County public schools remain above the 95% vaccination rate needed for community immunity. Yet Pennsylvania Department of Health data updated August 14 shows some elementary schools falling below that threshold.

Vaccination isn't a political issue. It's a public health responsibility. Our children deserve better. Our communities deserve better. And in November, we have the power to demand better.