Autism advocacy groups have slammed the conspiracy theory pusher-turned-health secretary after he claimed that the disorder is “preventable” and an “epidemic” on Wednesday. “These are kids who will never pay taxes,” Kennedy declared in his first presser as the top U.S. health official.

Responding to RFK Jr.'s remarks, Representative Frost wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "This is disrespectful and a flat-out lie that further stigmatizes autism. It's not a virus or a disease — it's a neurological condition with a wide spectrum. Many Americans with autism work, pay taxes, and are living happy and healthy lives."