On the Friday episode of Fox News’ The Five, a fiery exchange unfolded between co-hosts Jessica Tarlov and Jesse Watters, centered on Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial Covid-19 vaccine policies. The heated moment, emblematic of the show’s often contentious roundtable debates, saw Tarlov sharply criticize Watters for questioning whether individuals were truly being denied vaccines, culminating in her pointed accusation, “Why don’t you ever prepare?!”
The altercation began when Tarlov referenced several Republican senators—Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Barrasso (R-WY), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Thom Tillis (R-NC)—who had supported Kennedy’s confirmation as Health Secretary but were now voicing concerns over his vaccine policies.
“These senators, all Republicans who voted to confirm [Kennedy], are saying we are denying people vaccines,” Tarlov stated, emphasizing the growing backlash against Kennedy’s approach.
Watters, known for his provocative style, challenged Tarlov’s claim, asking, “What vaccines has he denied someone?” His question appeared to question the validity or extent of the reported restrictions. In response, Tarlov pointed to a specific case involving the wife of conservative radio host Erick Erickson, who, she claimed, was recently denied a Covid-19 vaccine due to Kennedy’s policies.
The policies at the heart of the dispute stem from a late August 2025 announcement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which authorized updated Covid-19 vaccines for the fall season. However, these vaccines came with stricter eligibility criteria, marking the most restrictive federal vaccine policy since the shots were first rolled out in 2020. Tarlov mentioned, argue that these restrictions have left vulnerable individuals—like Erickson’s wife, who reportedly has health issues—unable to access boosters or updated shots.
Also on the Friday show things got VERY heated as Kayleigh McEnany hits back at Jessica Tarlov after she has the nerve to claim Kayleigh is “fresh” and unprepared.
🔥 Fox News gets VERY heated as Kayleigh McEnany hits back at Jessica Tarlov after she has the nerve to claim Kayleigh is “fresh” and unprepared:
— TV News Now (@TVNewsNow) September 6, 2025
Kayleigh: “I'm fresh and I brought my facts!” pic.twitter.com/M8pLWvRPD2
The exchange reflects broader tensions on The Five, where Tarlov, the panel’s primary liberal voice, frequently clashes with conservative co-hosts like Watters, Greg Gutfeld, and Dana Perino. Tarlov’s role often involves defending progressive viewpoints against a predominantly conservative lineup, which can lead to heated moments, especially on polarizing topics like public health policy. Watters, known for his combative and sometimes playful demeanor, often pushes back with skepticism or counterpoints.