A renowned vaccine scientist revealed that he was subjected to harassment outside his home after being called out by podcast host Joe Rogan to debate anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is also running for the Democratic presidential candidacy.
Peter Hotez, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine, took to Twitter on Sunday to express his frustration, stating, “Ugh I just was stalked in front of my home by a couple of antivaxers taunting me to debate RFKJr. … What is it with people?”
Hotez drew attention to an article from Vice about vaccine misinformation discussed in a conversation between Rogan and Kennedy on “The Joe Rogan Experience.” He remarked, “from all the online attacks I’m receiving after this absurd podcast, it’s clear many actually believe this nonsense.”
Rogan responded to Hotez’s tweet by challenging the scientist to debate Kennedy on his podcast, offering a substantial donation of $100,000.00 to the charity of Hotez’s choice.
In response, Hotez expressed his willingness to engage in a conversation with Rogan, but Rogan dismissed his response, labeling it a “non-answer.”
Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter, joined the conversation and claimed that Hotez was scared of a public debate because he knows he is wrong. Kennedy also called for a respectful and informative debate with Hotez, believing it is what the American people deserve.
Entrepreneurs Bill Ackman and Steve Kirsch offered to add to Rogan’s wager, pledging $150,000 and $100,000, respectively, to ensure an open debate on this crucial topic.
However, there were others who came to Hotez’s defense. Epidemiologist Eric Feigl-Ding stated on Twitter that the threat to Hotez’s life is real and expressed concern over Rogan inciting stalking and violence. Mark Cuban, a businessman, called out the absurdity of attempting to bully Dr. Hotez.
Cuban pointed out that Rogan and Kennedy have teams of producers and staff who would effectively prepare them for the debate, giving Rogan complete control over the conversation.
George Takei encouraged his followers to support Hotez and all individuals who believe in science and oppose quackery.
Kennedy, who is running for the presidency as a Democrat, has faced scrutiny in the past for his unfounded claims about vaccines. YouTube recently removed an interview between Kennedy and commentator Jordan Peterson for spreading vaccine misinformation.
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