US Health Secretary RFK Jr. Signals Restrictions on Abortion Pill Mifepristone

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised concerns about the safety data of the abortion drug mifepristone, claiming that the Biden administration previously "twisted the data" to downplay safety risks. This assertion is based on a controversial, non-peer-reviewed paper from a conservative think tank that reported nearly 11% of women experienced severe complications after taking the drug, a figure far higher than FDA data. Kennedy has initiated a review of the drug's safety with FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, signaling potential regulatory changes that could restrict access to mifepristone. Pro-life groups, including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, support Kennedy's review and call for greater safeguards, citing concerns about abuse involving abortion pills. However, medical experts and numerous studies over decades affirm mifepristone's safety and effectiveness, and Kennedy's comments have been criticized as part of a broader political effort to limit abortion access, aligned with right-wing agendas like Project 2025 under President Trump. The debate reflects heightened tensions as states and federal agencies navigate abortion policy in the post-Dobbs era.