Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was confirmed as the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary despite facing significant opposition from Democrats and some Republicans who raised concerns about his anti-vaccine stance and qualifications.
The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday, following weeks of intense debate and scrutiny surrounding his controversial nomination. The vote was 52 to 48, largely split along party lines, with a single Republican, Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, joining Democrats in opposition.
McConnell, a polio survivor, stated that Kennedy 'failed to prove he is the best possible person' for the position, citing concerns about Kennedy's stance on vaccines.Kennedy, 71, is a prominent environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist. His family holds legendary status in Democratic politics as the nephew of President John F. Kennedy and son of Robert F. Kennedy. He launched a presidential campaign in 2023, initially seeking the Democratic nomination before switching to an independent bid, which he ultimately dropped to endorse President Trump in August. Prior to entering politics, Kennedy served as president of the Waterkeeper Alliance, a non-profit organization, for two decades. He also founded Children's Health Defense, which has challenged vaccine requirements and approvals, and served as its chairman since 2016. Married to actress Cheryl Hines, Kennedy has six children.With his confirmation, Kennedy assumes leadership of the vast HHS department, encompassing agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the Food and Drug Administration. Kennedy's path to confirmation was initially uncertain. His controversial views on vaccines and abortion drew opposition from both sides of the political aisle. Two confirmation hearings, marked by tense exchanges with senators, did little to alleviate concerns about his suitability. As support from Democrats dwindled, the vote to advance his nomination out of committee hinged on a single Republican, Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana. Cassidy, a medical doctor, had expressed reservations about Kennedy's nomination due to his long-standing skepticism of vaccines. In a surprising turn, just before the committee vote, Cassidy announced his support, citing 'serious commitments' received from the administration. He later revealed that Kennedy and the administration had agreed upon 'an unprecedentedly close collaborative working relationship,' involving frequent communication.However, Democratic opposition persisted throughout the process. They voiced concerns about the potential impact Kennedy could have on the health system and his past statements on vaccines. Senate Democrats spent hours on the Senate floor expressing their disapproval. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, labeled Kennedy an 'anti-vaccine crusader' and the 'least qualified nominee to ever be nominated for a position of this importance.' Wyden urged Republican colleagues to reconsider their support, warning that their legacy would be tarnished by potential setbacks in science. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated his 'pride' in the unified opposition from Democrats, suggesting that a secret ballot would have resulted in Kennedy's rejection. He criticized Republicans for being 'strong-armed' by Trump and ultimately voting to confirm Kennedy, despite their reservations
ROBERT F. KENNEDY JR. HHS CONFIRMATION VACCINES HEALTH POLICY SENATE VOTE DONALD TRUMP
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