Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized Canada’s assisted suicide laws during testimony before lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week, calling the policies “abhorrent” and raising concerns about their broader implications, as reported [1] by The Gateway Pundit.
Kennedy made the remarks during appearances before both the Senate Finance Committee and the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. The hearings focused on a range of health policy issues, including the expansion of assisted suicide programs internationally.
At one point, Kennedy was asked directly about such policies and pointed to Canada’s approach as an example.
“I think those laws are abhorrent,” Kennedy said.
He continued by referencing the scope of the program in Canada.
“And we just see in Canada today, I think the number one cause of death is assisted suicide,” he added.
Kennedy argued that the issue goes beyond individual choice, saying that vulnerable populations could be affected.
“And as you say, it targets people with disabilities and people who are struggling in their lives,” he said.
He also addressed what he described as broader societal consequences, linking the issue to questions about national values and policy direction.
“I don’t think we can be a moral society; we can’t be a moral authority around the globe if that becomes institutionalized throughout our society,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy indicated that he is open to working with lawmakers from both parties on the issue.
“I am happy to work with you in whatever way we can,” he said.
RFK Jr: Assisted suicide has become the leading cause of death in Canada…wait…what?!
Slamming it, he says it targets vulnerable people, including those with disabilities.pic.twitter.com/uRGUg0k3T9 [3] https://t.co/hAw3m6pf9D [4]
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) April 22, 2026 [5]
Canada’s medical assistance in dying program, commonly referred to as MAID, has been in place for several years and allows eligible individuals to request assistance in ending their lives under certain conditions.
According to Canadian government guidelines, individuals must be at least 18 years old, make a voluntary request, and be in what is described as an “advanced state of irreversible decline in capability.”
The program also includes individuals experiencing “enduring and intolerable physical or psychological suffering that cannot be alleviated under conditions the person considers acceptable.”
The program has generated ongoing debate. Reports indicate that Canada could approach 100,000 assisted deaths before the program reaches its 10th anniversary later this year. As of 2024, the number of assisted deaths has reached 76,475.
The issue has drawn attention from policymakers and advocacy groups in both countries, with supporters and critics continuing to debate its scope and ethical implications.
Kennedy’s remarks came amid broader discussions in Washington about health care policy, including questions about how the United States should approach emerging international trends in medical ethics and patient care.