Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly criticized The New York Times over a recent article about his agency, calling it a "hit piece" and questioning the credibility of its sources.

Kennedy accused the newspaper of relying on information from former employees who he characterized as "disgruntled." He suggested these sources were individuals who had been removed from their positions at the agency.

The criticism represents an escalation in tensions between Kennedy and major news outlets as he assumes leadership of the federal health agency. Kennedy used the term "propagandists" to describe the Times' reporting approach.

The specific content of the Times article that prompted Kennedy's response was not detailed in the available reporting. Kennedy's comments appear to be part of a broader pattern of disputes between high-profile government officials and established news organizations.

The exchange highlights ongoing debates about sourcing practices in journalism, particularly the use of former employees as sources for reporting on government agencies and political figures.