UPDATE: In a striking Halloween display, a neighbor of U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has sent a bold message about his controversial vaccine policies. Christine Payne set up a skeleton in her yard adorned with a sign saying, “Wish I had taken my vaccine,” directly targeting Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance.
This urgent display is not just a Halloween prank; it reflects deep societal concerns surrounding vaccination amid an alarming rise in measles cases. As of October 28, 2025, the United States has seen a staggering 1,648 confirmed measles cases, the highest since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000.
Payne, whose son has autism, expressed frustration with Kennedy’s actions since taking office, including cutting $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development and promoting unfounded claims linking vaccines to autism. “My neighbor is very active in anti-vaccine efforts,” she told WTOP News, underscoring the emotional weight of her Halloween setup.
In September, Kennedy joined former President Donald Trump at a press conference, where they suggested without sufficient evidence that the pain reliever Tylenol could be linked to autism in children when taken by pregnant women. The claims have sparked outrage and skepticism, with a recent KFF poll revealing that only 4 percent of the public believe these assertions are undoubtedly true.
“There is a small bottle of Tylenol also next to his feet because we’re very concerned about it affecting children,” Payne explained, emphasizing the health risks she believes are associated with Kennedy’s rhetoric.
Kennedy’s statements come amidst rising criticism, as he himself has acknowledged that evidence linking Tylenol to autism is “not sufficient to say it definitely causes autism.” Despite this, he continues to push these narratives, calling pregnant women who take Tylenol “suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
Payne’s Halloween decor has become a local sensation, with many residents stopping to take photos. However, Kennedy has yet to comment publicly on the display. Another neighbor has joined the mockery, placing a headstone in their yard with the phrase “I did my own research,” a jab at Kennedy’s attempts to conduct his vaccine research.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has also weighed in, sharing a costume suggestion for Kennedy that includes a “measles party invite,” further amplifying the ridicule surrounding the secretary’s controversial stances.
Despite their political differences, Payne described Kennedy as “one of the nicer neighbors,” adding, “But love thy neighbor, not agree with his politics.” This sentiment captures the complex dynamics at play as neighbors confront their differing views on public health.
The message from Kennedy’s neighbors is clear: as vaccine misinformation continues to spread, especially during a public health crisis, the community is making its stance known. The urgent need for factual health information remains critical as the country grapples with rising measles cases and vaccine hesitancy.
As we head deeper into flu season and amid ongoing discussions about COVID-19 vaccinations, the spotlight on Kennedy and his controversial policies is expected to intensify. Residents and health advocates alike remain vigilant, pushing for clarity and accountability in vaccine messaging.
