Texas virologist Dr. Peter Hotez has found himself at the center of controversy after being challenged to a debate on the Joe Rogan podcast by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., leading to alleged stalking incidents.

Hotez expressed concerns about Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance during Rogan’s interview, sparking backlash from both sides and calls for a debate. Hotez was confronted by an individual identified as Alex Rosen, who questioned his reluctance to debate Kennedy. Hotez felt harassed and closed the conversation.

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Following the incident, Hotez took to Twitter, expressing his frustration at being stalked and jokingly commenting on his attire during the encounter. The debate challenge arose after Kennedy repeated debunked claims linking childhood vaccines to autism during his interview on Rogan’s podcast.

Rogan responded by offering Hotez $100,000 to debate Kennedy on his show, while Elon Musk joined the discussion, taunting Hotez and alleging his fear of public debate. Hotez received support from billionaire Mark Cuban, who defended the importance of vaccines and criticized Rogan and Musk’s involvement in the controversy.

Despite the heated exchanges, Hotez expressed his willingness to have a meaningful discussion on Rogan’s podcast and make progress on the vaccine issue. Kennedy also indicated his readiness for a respectful debate, highlighting the importance of such discussions for the American people.

Kennedy has gained attention for his anti-vaccine views, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been associated with figures and groups promoting misinformation and conspiracy theories. His involvement in the anti-vaccine movement has intensified, leading to increased revenues for his charity, Children’s Health Defense.

Kennedy’s presidential candidacy has garnered limited support, polling at around 15 percent among potential Democratic primary voters. In addition to his vaccine skepticism, Kennedy has expressed concerns about Biden’s handling of the war in Ukraine and called for redirecting funds to address domestic needs.

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The controversy surrounding Hotez, Kennedy, and Rogan highlights the ongoing debate on vaccines and the challenges faced by scientists in combating misinformation. While Hotez remains open to discussing the issue, the incident of stalking raises concerns about the safety and respectful engagement in such discussions.