Summary

Kennedy described autism as an “individual tragedy” and “catastrophic,” claiming children with autism “will never pay taxes,” “never hold a job,” or “never go out on a date.”

Dr. Peter Hotez and other advocates pushed back, calling his comments harmful and reductive.

“He set up this litmus test of what it is to be a person,” said Zoe Gross.

“They deserve better than being a rhetorical prop,” she added.