Statement in response to Secretary Kennedy's offhand remarks during Senate Finance Committee Hearing (9.4.25)
DALLAS, Sept. 5, 2025 — HHS Secretary Kennedy’s offhand comment that the American Heart Association has been co-opted by industry was unfortunate and is untrue.
The American Heart Association is, and always has been, guided by and remains faithful to the highest standards of science and evidence – objectively and independently generated. The suggestion that any corporation could exert inappropriate influence over the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association is unfounded. The Association’s scientific peer-review and rigorous internal policy processes protect against and ensure no inappropriate corporate influence can occur. To insinuate otherwise is simply inaccurate and not truthful.
More than 85 cents of every dollar received by the Association comes from non-corporate sources, including individual donors, foundations and estates as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of its educational materials. In truth, corporate financial support represents a very small percentage of the organization’s overall revenue (less than 15% total from all types of industry). The suggestion that the American Heart Association is somehow corrupt does a tremendous disservice to the extraordinary contributions of millions of Americans – researchers, clinicians, volunteers and staff – who dedicate their time and talents to improving the health of everyone everywhere.
At the Association we believe all sectors — government, private industry and philanthropy – must work together to improve the nation’s health effectively and efficiently.
For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has remained true to scientific discovery and evidence in order to be a respected, sensible and responsible public health voice for all Americans.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
