Aaron Rodgers has entered the ongoing debate between Dr. Peter Hotez and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expressing his support for Kennedy. The four-time NFL MVP shared a clip on his Instagram story (now expired) highlighting an exchange between Hotez and Joe Rogan, where Hotez admitted to unhealthy eating habits.
Rodgers, known for his own views on the COVID-19 vaccine, reportedly commented that Kennedy would "mop" Hotez in a debate, according to Sports Illustrated. Hotez responded by expressing disappointment in Rodgers' "cheap shot," referencing a 2021 disagreement they had regarding Rodgers' public anti-vaccine stance. Hotez pointed out the high mortality rate among unvaccinated individuals during the Delta variant surge, emphasizing the vaccine's effectiveness at the time. While harboring no ill will toward Rodgers, Hotez noted the upcoming game between his hometown Houston Texans and Rodgers' New York Jets.
The interaction stems from a 2020 podcast appearance by Hotez on Rogan's show. Following Hotez's criticism of Rogan for spreading vaccine "misinformation," Rogan offered Hotez $100,000 to debate Kennedy on his show. Kennedy echoed the offer, calling for a respectful and informative debate. Hotez declined, likening the potential debate to a "Jerry Springer Show" scenario.
Fox News medical contributor Dr. Nicole Saphier weighed in, suggesting such a debate wouldn't be in the public's best interest. Hotez, frequently cited in the media throughout the pandemic, has faced criticism for his strong advocacy of COVID-19 vaccines and masks for children, despite the low mortality rate in that age group. His stance on school reopenings during the pandemic also drew criticism from conservatives.
