RFK Jr. Labels Amish ‘Control Group’ in Vaccine Debate

RFK Jr. addressed a large Mennonite crowd in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in July 2021, expressing admiration for the Amish lifestyle. He praised their decision not to vaccinate, which he believed protected them from chronic disorders like autism. He described the Amish as a “control group” that public health agencies, including the CDC, could not tolerate. “They are coming for you,” he warned the crowd, suggesting federal agencies would seek to vaccinate the Amish.

RFK Jr. claimed that the Amish had made a healthier choice by avoiding vaccines, which he said prevented autism. He referenced a film about mercury in vaccines and mentioned a doctor in Lancaster who claimed no autism was seen among the Amish. However, a 2010 study of Amish children in Ohio and Indiana found an autism rate of at least 1 in 271 children, contradicting his assertion.

Despite his mischaracterization of autism rates, RFK Jr. was correct in predicting that public health officials would soon target the Amish. In 2026, five years after his visit, a measles epidemic swept through Amish and Mennonite communities in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The outbreak highlighted the vulnerability of unvaccinated populations and the role of public health measures in preventing disease spread.

The incident underscores the tension between individual religious choices and public health mandates. Amish and Mennonite communities often prioritize faith-based beliefs over medical recommendations, leading to conflicts with health authorities. The measles outbreak served as a stark reminder of the consequences of vaccine hesitancy within these groups.

The situation reflects broader challenges in balancing personal freedom with communal responsibility. While the Amish and Mennonite communities have long maintained their distinct ways of life, public health crises reveal the potential risks of rejecting medical interventions. The episode also raises questions about the role of government in protecting public health versus respecting religious autonomy.

The measles outbreak in Lancaster County illustrates the complex interplay between faith, health, and policy. It highlights the need for dialogue between religious communities and public health officials to address concerns while ensuring the well-being of all. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of vaccine hesitancy and the importance of community health initiatives.

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