Robert F Kennedy Jr grabs writhing snakes on a Florida patio

May 26, 2026

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. posted a viral video showing himself barefoot and barehanded capturing two black racer snakes from Dr. Mehmet Oz's Florida beachfront property while his wife questioned his actions in the background.

Who is affected

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (US Health Secretary who handled the snakes and appeared to be bitten)
Dr. Mehmet Oz (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services leader, whose property the snakes were on)
Cheryl Hines (Kennedy's wife, referenced in the video)
The general public (who may be influenced by Kennedy's example)
The two black racer snakes (that were removed from the property)

What action is being taken

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is warning people to stay away from snakes as they become more active in the spring.

Why it matters

This matters because a high-ranking government health official is modeling dangerous wildlife handling behavior that contradicts official safety guidance from wildlife authorities, potentially encouraging the public to take similar risks with snakes that can bite even when non-venomous. It also raises questions about the judgment and conduct of a cabinet-level official responsible for overseeing national health policy.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC