Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, recently shared details of his past struggles with drug addiction during an appearance on comedian Theo Von's podcast, "This Past Weekend w/Theo Von." In the discussion, Kennedy described using cocaine off of toilet seats prior to achieving sobriety, and linked this experience to his current mindset regarding germs and the COVID-19 pandemic. These remarks have since drawn public attention and prompted some calls for his resignation.
Background of Remarks
During the interview, which aired on February 12, 2026, Kennedy spoke about his journey through addiction recovery. He stated that his past experiences with substance abuse had led him to a point where he was unafraid of germs, a sentiment he explicitly connected to his past cocaine use.
Kennedy stated, "I used to snort cocaine off of toilet seats."
He further elaborated that this experience made him less concerned about potential exposure to germs, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Secretary also mentioned his commitment to attending daily recovery meetings, even during pandemic-related restrictions.
Public Reaction and Scrutiny
Kennedy's candid admissions have circulated widely, particularly on social media, sparking varied reactions. Some individuals and groups have expressed concern over the remarks made by a high-ranking health official.
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A healthcare group has formally urged Kennedy to resign following his comments.
His statements have been framed by some as boasting about past risky behavior.
The timing of these remarks, within his tenure as Health and Human Services Secretary, has led to increased scrutiny.
RFK Jr.'s History of Addiction
Kennedy has previously been open about his long-standing battle with substance abuse, which he has detailed in public forums. He has attributed the start of his drug use to the period following his father's assassination and has described a significant period of heroin use.
His addiction began in his youth and continued into adulthood.
He has reported a period of heroin use lasting approximately 14 years.
Kennedy has maintained over 40 years of sobriety, crediting daily attendance at recovery meetings for his sustained abstinence.
He has consistently framed his recovery as a formative experience that has shaped his discipline and outlook.
Context of the Podcast Appearance
The interview took place on Theo Von's podcast, where both Kennedy and Von discussed their personal experiences with addiction and recovery.
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Kennedy stated he and Von first met during recovery meetings.
The conversation touched upon public perceptions of hygiene and risk.
Kennedy's remarks were made in the context of discussing his views on recovery programs and personal resilience.
Expert and Public Discourse
The statements have entered broader public discussion regarding the appropriateness of such disclosures from a government official in a health-related role.
Some commentators have pointed to the contrast between Kennedy's past actions and his current position overseeing public health initiatives.
Others have defended his openness as a sign of his ongoing commitment to recovery and his willingness to share his personal journey.
The remarks have also been seen by some as reflective of a personal philosophy that prioritizes resilience forged through overcoming adversity.
Findings and Implications
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent comments on a podcast have brought renewed attention to his personal history with drug addiction. His description of past cocaine use, linked to a disregard for germs, has prompted calls for his resignation from certain healthcare advocacy groups. Kennedy has consistently been candid about his decades-long struggle with substance abuse and his subsequent recovery, often highlighting it as a key aspect of his life and public persona. The ongoing discourse suggests a continued public interest in the intersection of his personal history and his official capacity as Health and Human Services Secretary.
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Sources:
NJ.com: https://www.nj.com/politics/2026/02/rfk-jr-just-admitted-he-used-to-snort-cocaine-off-toilet-seats-and-people-are-stunned.html
RT: https://www.rt.com/news/632410-cocaine-toilet-seats-robert-kennedy/
Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/rfk-jr-theo-vonn-podcast-cocaine-toilet-seats-11516092
Daily Mail: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15559153/RFK-Jr-cocaine-theo-von.html?ito=1490&nscampaign=1490
CNN Politics: https://edition.cnn.com/2026/02/13/politics/video/robert-kennedy-cocaine-podcast-theo-von-vrtc
People: https://people.com/rfk-jr-says-he-used-to-snort-cocaine-off-of-toilet-seats-11906079
Inquisitr: https://www.inquisitr.com/rfk-jr-admits-shocking-pate-when-discussing-his-recovery-and-germs
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/13/healthcare-groups-rfk-jr-resign-cocaine-toilet-seats
Mediaite: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/rfk-jr-boasts-hes-not-scared-of-germs-because-he-used-to-snort-cocaine-off-of-toilet-seats/
Fark: https://digg.com/fark/o2ziVpN/rfk-jr-admits-he-wasnt-worried-about-The-Pandemic-Because-He-Used-to-Snort-Cocaine-Off-Toilet-Seats
