As President Trump’s appointments roll in, public health advocates are watching closely. Among the most contentious is FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr’s nomination to lead the FCC—a move that has sparked outrage among those concerned about outdated radiofrequency radiation (RF) safety standards. Adding fuel to the fire is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s uncharacteristic silence on the issue, raising questions about his strategy as he positions himself to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
RFK Jr.’s landmark legal battle against the FCC exposed glaring flaws in the agency’s safety guidelines, which have remained unchanged since 1996. These guidelines, focused solely on thermal effects, fail to address the proven non-thermal biological risks of RF radiation. Meanwhile, Carr has consistently defended these outdated standards, aligning closely with telecom industry interests. The stakes couldn’t be higher as America grapples with the rapid deployment of 5G technology.
This blog explores the stark contrast between RFK Jr.’s advocacy and Carr’s position, and why RF radiation safety must be a top priority for the new administration.
RFK Jr.: A History of Advocacy
Exposing Non-Thermal Effects
RFK Jr. has long been a vocal critic of RF safety standards, highlighting the dangers of non-thermal effects—biological impacts that occur without heating tissue. These include:
- Disruption of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB): Studies show RF radiation increases BBB permeability, allowing toxins and pathogens to enter the brain. This has been linked to neurological disorders and glioblastomas, an aggressive form of brain cancer.
- DNA Damage and Oxidative Stress: Research from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) found clear evidence of carcinogenic effects, including glioblastomas and heart tumors in animals exposed to RF radiation.
Landmark Court Victory
In 2021, RFK Jr. and organizations like the Environmental Health Trust won a decisive legal victory against the FCC. The U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that the FCC’s refusal to update its guidelines was “arbitrary and capricious,” highlighting the agency’s failure to consider thousands of studies on non-thermal effects.
Brendan Carr: Defender of the Status Quo
Carr’s record paints a troubling picture for those concerned about RF safety:
- Defending Outdated Guidelines: Carr has repeatedly stated that the FCC’s 1996 guidelines are sufficient, ignoring mounting evidence of non-thermal effects.
- Industry Alignment: His positions closely align with telecom industry narratives, raising questions about regulatory capture—when agencies prioritize industry profits over public health.
A Direct Contradiction
The 2021 court ruling debunks Carr’s claims, exposing the FCC’s reliance on outdated science. Neither the FCC nor the FDA provided evidence to support their guidelines, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable to potential health risks.
A Silent Strategy?
RFK Jr.’s uncharacteristic silence on Carr’s nomination has left many supporters perplexed. Could this be a calculated move?
The HHS Connection
As the likely head of HHS, Kennedy may be playing a long game. The HHS wields significant influence over public health policy and could pressure the FCC to update its guidelines. However, silence from Kennedy means his supporters must take up the mantle to oppose Carr’s nomination.
Why This Fight Matters
Outdated Standards, Real Risks
The FCC’s guidelines focus only on preventing tissue heating, ignoring well-documented biological effects at levels far below thermal thresholds. For example:
- Glioblastomas: Linked to prolonged cell phone use on the side of the head.
- Reproductive Harm: Studies show decreased sperm viability and DNA fragmentation from exposure to RF radiation.
- Children at Risk: Kids absorb more radiation due to their thinner skulls and developing tissues.
Global Comparisons
While countries like France and Italy have stricter RF regulations, the U.S. lags behind. France has recalled phones exceeding radiation limits, and Italian courts have ruled in favor of individuals claiming RF radiation caused their brain tumors.
What Needs to Happen Now
1. Mobilize Public Support
Kennedy supporters must demand transparency and action. Silence now could mean compromised safety standards for years to come.
2. Oppose Carr’s Nomination
Brendan Carr’s record demonstrates he is not the leader America needs to oversee RF safety. His appointment would cement outdated policies and industry dominance.
3. Push for Updated Guidelines
The FCC must:
- Acknowledge non-thermal effects.
- Implement stricter exposure limits, especially for children and pregnant women.
- Reinvest in independent research on RF health risks.
A Call to Action
The stakes are too high to ignore. RFK Jr.’s silence on Brendan Carr’s nomination shouldn’t deter his supporters from making their voices heard. Whether Kennedy is playing a strategic game or simply prioritizing other battles, one thing is clear: the FCC must not remain under the control of those who dismiss the science of RF radiation risks.
This is your moment to act. Write to your representatives. Demand updated safety guidelines. And insist that America prioritize public health over corporate profits.