From Mother Jones · Nina Martin · · 1m 20s
RFK Jr. Promotes Anti-Abortion Activist
RFK Jr. elevates activist Natalie Dodson to key HHS role after her anti-abortion advocacy.
In brief
RFK Jr. elevates activist Natalie Dodson to key HHS role after her anti-abortion advocacy. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promoted Natalie Dodson, an anti-abortion activist who called mifepristone 'high-risk', to advise on federal policy. Originally reported by Mother Jones.
Natalie Dodson Promoted
Natalie Dodson, a Project 2025 contributor, was promoted to counselor in the Immediate Office of the Secretary at HHS in October.
Dodson's Anti-Abortion History
Dodson previously worked at a far-right think tank where she criticized abortion drug mifepristone as 'high-risk'.
HHS Role and Impact
Dodson serves as acting deputy assistant secretary for population affairs, overseeing Title X family planning programs.
FDA Review Concerns
FDA is reviewing mifepristone safety, with potential to reinstate restrictions requiring in-person clinic visits.
Project 2025 Connection
Project 2025, which Kennedy helped shape, calls for revoking mifepristone approval entirely.
EPPC Report Influence
EPPC published flawed report in April 2025 claiming mifepristone is more dangerous than FDA data suggests.
Political Strategy
Kennedy and Trump administration delayed action until after midterms to maximize anti-abortion impact.
Healthcare Advocacy Response
OB-GYNs warn Dodson's promotion undermines scientific evidence on medication abortion safety.
UN Role
Dodson represents HHS at UN efforts to get countries to sign Geneva Consensus Declaration.
Funding Ties
Anti-abortion physician Marguerite Duane received $8.4 million in HHS grants for similar policies.
The short version
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promoted Natalie Dodson, an anti-abortion activist who called mifepristone 'high-risk', to advise on federal policy.
