Midterm Election Update: Vaccines Published: Oct 6, 2026

https://www.kff.org/elections/midterm-election-update-vaccines/ Federal vaccine policy has shifted toward fewer recommended routine childhood vaccinations, more emphasis on individual decision-making, and greater skepticism about the safety and efficacy of some vaccines. In response, some states are relying less on federal recommendations in setting vaccination requirements. The changes coincide with declining childhood vaccination rates, rising exemptions from school vaccine requirements, and a major measles resurgence. The public’s trust in federal health officials remains low.