Disability Advocates Alarmed Over RFK Jr.’s Claims and Trump Shift of Special Education to His Department

Advocates for disabled students say they feel alienated by statements made by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about autism. The comments have sparked concern among disability groups nationwide. At the same time, the Trump administration is moving special‑education programs into the department overseen by Kennedy. Advocates argue the shift could change how services are delivered to students with disabilities. They fear the new leadership may prioritize policies that conflict with established special‑education standards. The groups are issuing warnings to policymakers and the public. They call for transparency and involvement in decisions affecting autism and other disabilities. The controversy highlights tensions between federal education policy and disability rights advocates.