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RFK Jr. Says Americans Shouldn’t Copy His Nicotine or Tanning Habits — ‘Get in Shape’

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 71 and now HHS secretary, said he is not asking Americans to copy his personal habits — including using nicotine pouches and tanning beds — and urged people instead to "get in shape." Since his confirmation in February, Kennedy's controversial views on vaccines and other health issues have drawn intense scrutiny. Several family members publicly opposed his appointment and criticized his statements and fitness for the role.

02:32 AM, 11/26/2025Politics
RFK Jr. Says Americans Shouldn’t Copy His Nicotine or Tanning Habits — ‘Get in Shape’

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 71, defended his personal habits — including the use of nicotine pouches and occasional tanning-bed use — while serving as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. When reporters pressed him about how those choices square with his public health message, he responded that he is not urging people to follow his example.

“I’m not telling people that they should do anything that I do,”

He added a simpler directive:

“I just say ‘Get in shape.’”

Kennedy, who was confirmed as HHS secretary in February, has been a polarizing figure because of his public positions on vaccines and other health topics. Observers have pointed to his reported habit of carrying nicotine pouches and an incident during his January confirmation hearing when he appeared to place a pouch in his mouth. Public concern has grown because the department he leads is charged with promoting and protecting public health.

Beyond nicotine and tanning, Kennedy has criticized certain mainstream public-health positions, including aspects of vaccine policy and common food additives such as artificial dyes and seed oils. Those views have intensified scrutiny over whether he is a fit steward for a federal health agency.

His appointment prompted sharp criticism from members of his own family. His brother, Maxwell Kennedy, wrote that the decision betrayed the family legacy and criticized the administration’s treatment of vulnerable populations. His cousin Caroline Kennedy warned senators during the confirmation process that his statements about the health-care system and vaccines have caused harm. Other family members, including Caroline’s children, have publicly condemned both his policy positions and his role in the administration.

As questions about his personal behavior and public positions persist, Kennedy maintains he is offering general guidance about improving health rather than modeling every personal choice.

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