Statement from the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) on White House Remarks Regarding Autism

The Autism Society of Minnesota is deeply concerned by statements made at yesterday’s White House event on autism, where unsubstantiated claims were presented as the “cause” of autism and harmful language was used to describe autistic people.

Autism is a diverse, lifelong disability shaped by a complex interaction of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. There is no single cause of autism. Decades of rigorous research have not identified a cure, nor do we believe autism is something that needs to be “cured.” Autistic people deserve respect, access to services, and policies that support them across the lifespan—not rhetoric that stigmatizes or misleads.

We are especially troubled by remarks linking the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy to autism. While some studies have explored associations, the strongest scientific evidence—including a 2024 JAMA study of more than two million children—found no causal relationship once genetic and familial factors were taken into account. Alarmist claims risk deterring pregnant people from treating fever and pain, which carry real medical risks, and repeat a long history of harmful, mother-blaming theories that retraumatize families and distract from real progress.

Similarly, research into high-dose leucovorin (a prescription form of folate) is extremely preliminary, involving fewer than 50 participants in small trials. There is no scientific basis to present this as a “treatment” for autism. Misrepresenting such early research risks fostering false hope and directing families away from proven supports.

We are also alarmed by language that frames autism as a “horrible crisis” that “destroys families.” Such language dehumanizes autistic people, undermines their dignity, and causes real harm. Autism is not a disease or epidemic. Autistic people are valuable members of our communities whose experiences, contributions, and strengths must be recognized and respected.

Announcing a “cause of autism” without rigorous, replicated science risks lasting damage. History shows that misinformation, such as the disproven vaccine and “refrigerator mother” theories, can mislead the public and traumatize families for decades. We cannot afford to repeat these mistakes.

Autistic Minnesotans and their families deserve leadership grounded in science, compassion, and transparency. At AuSM, our focus remains on building inclusive communities, expanding access to services, and supporting research that improves quality of life for autistic people.