What Next | Daily News and Analysis How Trump Got Obsessed with Autism
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Sep 26, 2025 
Dan Diamond, White House correspondent for The Washington Post, discusses the alarming announcement linking Tylenol to autism. He examines the public health community's shocked reaction and clarifies the lack of evidence supporting the claim. Diamond reveals the political motivations behind the announcement and the historical context of Trump and RFK Jr.'s fixation on autism. The conversation also highlights the dangers of oversimplifying complex medical issues and advises families on navigating conflicting medical messages.
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Genetics And Detection Drive Autism Rates
- Most researchers view autism as largely genetic with possible environmental contributors.
- Rising diagnosis rates reflect better detection and broader definitions, not necessarily a sudden epidemic.
Promising Drug, Premature Spotlight
- Leucovorin (lucavorin) is an existing, low-harm compound being touted as a treatment with anecdotal promise.
- Diamond warns that anecdotes and limited studies don't normally justify rapid White House promotion.
Longstanding Fixation Shapes Policy
- Trump's fixation on autism and vaccines dates back decades and predates his presidency.
- Diamond links long-standing beliefs and his alliance with RFK Jr. to the administration's current approach.