September 23, 2025
Trump & RFK link Autism to Acetaminophen being taken during Pregnancy
The Ben Ferguson PodcastAbout this episode
Setting: President Trump held a press conference after attending Charlie Kirk’s funeral, teasing it as a “major announcement” on autism and public health. Main Claim: Trump and RFK Jr. asserted that acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of autism in children. Trump directly warned against taking Tylenol while pregnant, except in extreme cases of high fever. Autism Statistics (as presented by Trump): Historical rates cited: 1 in 20,000 → 1 in 10,000 → 1 in 31 overall today, and as high as 1 in 12 among boys in some regions (e.g., California). He described this increase as “artificial” and linked it to medication and vaccines. Specific Policy Steps Announced: FDA to issue warnings and update labeling for acetaminophen, cautioning its use during pregnancy. NIH, FDA, CDC, and CMS to coordinate a new effort investigating potential environmental, pharmaceutical, and vaccine links to autism. New grant funding (13 awards) through NIH’s Autism Data Science Initiatives. Other Health Proposals Trump Raised: Vaccines: suggested spacing them out, avoiding certain ingredients (mercury, aluminum), giving MMR separately, and delaying hepatitis B vaccination until age 12. Treatment: referenced new findings suggesting folate deficiency in children may contribute to autism, with therapies under research. RFK Jr.’s Role: He emphasized that past autism research was too focused on genetics and ignored environmental/toxic exposures. Supported Trump’s push to investigate acetaminophen, vaccines, and other potential causes. Announced NIH/FDA would pursue depoliticized research, new label warnings, and public education campaigns. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.