Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Allegedly Continues Psychedelic Use Despite Being Otherwise Sober, Book by Journalist Suggests

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), reportedly continues to use psychedelics even as he maintains sobriety from other substances, according to a forthcoming book by journalist Olivia Nuzzi, who allegedly had a romantic relationship with him. The claims appear in American Canto, scheduled for release in early December, and have sparked conversations about the intersection of personal conduct, drug policy, and public office.

Forthcoming Book Implies Kennedy Made an Exception for Psychedelics in His Sobriety

Nuzzi’s book does not explicitly name Kennedy but refers to a “politician” with whom she had a primarily digital affair while covering his 2023 presidential campaign. Details from the advance copy obtained by The New York Times strongly indicate that the unnamed politician is Kennedy, based on prior reports about their entanglement and timing.

According to the book, Kennedy allegedly told Nuzzi that he continues to use psychedelics despite being sober for decades. Among the substances mentioned is dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent psychedelic known for producing intense near-death-like experiences. The specifics of other psychedelics he may have used are not detailed.

Kennedy’s Public Support for Psychedelics Aligns With Alleged Personal Use

Kennedy has long spoken publicly about the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, both as a 2024 Democratic presidential candidate and in his current role as health secretary under President Donald Trump. His advocacy has included calls to expand research into psychedelic therapy and to provide legal access for military veterans within 12 months, according to statements made in June 2025.

The secretary has also shared personal anecdotes about psychedelic use in his youth. In April, he described taking LSD at 15 years old, motivated by a childhood fascination with dinosaurs and comic books. Such disclosures underscore Kennedy’s long-standing interest in the substances he now promotes for medical research.

Controversy Could Emerge Over Psychedelic Use While Serving in Federal Office

While Kennedy’s alleged use of psychedelics could generate controversy due to their status as Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act, he has openly criticized federal restrictions on their therapeutic use. Last October, he condemned the FDA under the prior administration for what he called a “suppression of psychedelics” and broader “war on public health,” framing his agency’s mission as reversing those policies.

Recently, Kennedy, alongside Vice President JD Vance and other Trump administration officials, participated in a “Make America Healthy Again” summit, which included a session dedicated to psychedelic medicine. The session highlighted the administration’s intent to advance psychedelic research and explore regulatory pathways for legal therapeutic use.

Balancing Personal Choices, Policy Advocacy, and Public Perception

The revelation, if confirmed, illustrates the complex overlap between Kennedy’s personal experiences with psychedelics and his professional advocacy for their medical applications. The book’s claims may provoke debate over ethical considerations for public officials using controlled substances, even for research or therapeutic purposes, while simultaneously shaping federal drug policy.

HHS has not publicly responded to inquiries from Marijuana Moment regarding the book’s claims. Kennedy’s office may face questions on how his personal use aligns with the administration’s regulatory initiatives, and whether there are safeguards or disclosure protocols for officials engaged in the advocacy or consumption of Schedule I substances.

Implications for Psychedelic Policy and Future Research Initiatives

Despite potential controversy, Kennedy’s tenure could accelerate federal engagement with psychedelic therapies. With growing evidence supporting benefits for mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, Kennedy’s dual role as both user and regulator might influence policy development, funding priorities, and public acceptance of therapeutic psychedelics.

Advocates and critics alike are watching closely, as the administration’s initiatives may set precedents for both legal frameworks and ethical standards surrounding psychedelic use. How Kennedy navigates these issues may impact ongoing research, access programs for veterans, and broader public perception of psychedelics in medical contexts.

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