Mar 26 2025 46 mins 4
Podcast:
Join hosts Dr. Liza Dunn and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 308 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:
Greenpeace USA faces a potential dissolution following a $667 million lawsuit loss tied to its activism against a North Dakota pipeline project. The lawsuit, brought by pipeline company Energy Transfer, accused the organization of orchestrating “unlawful” demonstrations that disrupted operations. The hefty financial penalty threatens Greenpeace USA’s viability, and could set a precedent for stifling activist groups through litigation. Will high-profile NGOs think twice before launching their next advocacy campaign?
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has again falsely claimed that the measles vaccine “causes deaths every year,” a statement debunked as activist propaganda lacking scientific backing. Experts affirm that the measles vaccine saves many lives each year by preventing a highly contagious disease. Kennedy’s assertion has nonetheless found a receptive audience among many Americans on the left and right. Let’s take a closer look at his allegation.
Under Trump 2.0, the FDA faces uncertainty with Marty Makary as commissioner. Makary, a Johns Hopkins surgeon, aims for transparency but has a history of controversial COVID-19 stances. The agency, regulating 25% of U.S. consumer spending, could see seismic shifts in drug, device, and food policies. Though Makary supports vaccines, his alignment with RFK, Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda sparks concern among experts about scientific integrity. With ultimate authority resting with Health and Human Services secretary RFK, Jr., the FDA risks becoming a battleground for ideological health reforms, threatening its reputation.
Dr. Liza Dunn is a medical toxicologist and the medical affairs lead at Bayer Crop Science. Follow her on X @DrLizaMD
Cameron J. English is the director of bio-sciences at the American Council on Science and Health. Visit his website and follow him on X @camjenglish
