Trump said "Nothing bad can happen, it can only good happen"
In September 2025, Trump said "nothing bad can happen, it can only good happen" while promoting an unproven Tylenol–autism link at a White House press event. The phrase went viral as a word salad, but the more serious issue was the medically misleading advice to pregnant women.
What we know
On 22 September 2025, President Trump held a White House event about a supposed link between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and autism, alongside Health Secretary RFK Jr. While announcing new restrictions on Tylenol use in pregnancy, he said: "Nothing bad can happen, it can only good happen."
The phrase quickly went viral because of its broken grammar and almost affirmation-like tone. However, beyond the word salad, medical organizations pointed out that the underlying message was dangerous. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reiterated that acetaminophen remains the only over-the-counter pain reliever generally considered safe in pregnancy when used as directed, and that untreated high fever itself carries risks such as miscarriage and preterm birth.
Some observational studies have explored associations between prenatal acetaminophen use and later neurodevelopmental outcomes, including autism spectrum disorders, but these studies are limited and cannot prove causation. Major reviews and regulatory agencies have not concluded that Tylenol causes autism, and continue to consider it acceptable at recommended doses.
In this context, the quote "nothing bad can happen, it can only good happen" functions as a rhetorical cover for advice that conflicts with current medical consensus. The scientific evidence does not support the policy implied in the statement, and the messaging may encourage pregnant women to avoid necessary treatment for fever.
Common claims
- Trump only mangled the sentence, there is no real problem behind it.Not supported. The quote comes from a press event that promoted medically dubious advice about Tylenol and autism.
- There is solid evidence that Tylenol use in pregnancy causes autism.Not supported. Some studies show correlations, but causation is unproven and major bodies still consider acetaminophen acceptable when used as directed.
- Pregnant women should avoid Tylenol altogether because of autism risk.Not supported and potentially harmful. Medical organizations still recommend acetaminophen as the preferred OTC option for fever and pain in pregnancy.