Kennedy expected to remain quiet amid ongoing Nuzzi-Lizza dispute

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. seems poised to remain silent as a heated political-media clash continues in 2025. Kennedy finds himself at the heart of public claims made by journalist Ryan Lizza concerning Kennedys former fiance, Olivia Nuzzi. Nuzzis newly released book portrays a relationship with a prominent politician as intensely emotional and sexual in nature, though not physical.

Lizza has also leveled claims against Kennedy, reporting that Nuzzi shared various details with him. These include allegations that Kennedy used ketamine in 2024, suspected that his phone had been compromised during his presidential campaign, and was allegedly informed about Nuzzis covert attempt to record President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Kennedy previously denied any involvement in the digital recording matter when it was first reported over a year ago.

Despite the public attention from Washington reporters and Trump administration officials, Kennedy has chosen not to comment. This is purely about book promotion and personal vendettas promotion for her and revenge for him, and engaging offers no benefit, a source familiar with the situation told Semafor. Bobby, his wife Cheryl Hines, and the administration moved past this a year ago.

An HHS representative declined to address the claims made by Lizza, while the White House did not respond to inquiries regarding the alleged Mar-a-Lago recordings. Critics from several leading outlets have criticized Nuzzis book. In an interview with Substacker Emily Sundberg, Nuzzi dismissed Lizzas reporting as obsessive, fan-fiction-like, and vindictive.

Author: Zoe Harrison