In a contentious confirmation that illustrated the divided political landscape, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has officially assumed the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services. Sworn in via a ceremony in the Oval Office, Kennedy will now lead an agency responsible for the health of millions, with a workforce of approximately 80,000 employees and a significant budget exceeding a trillion dollars.
RFK Jr Takes Charge as US Health and Human Services Secretary Amid Controversy
RFK Jr Takes Charge as US Health and Human Services Secretary Amid Controversy
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been sworn in as the new US Secretary of Health and Human Services, overseeing health agencies amidst skepticism over his past health claims.
Kennedy, a former presidential contender, was confirmed by a narrow Senate vote of 52-48—without any Democratic support and with former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell siding against him as the lone Republican dissenting voice. Prior to his nomination, Kennedy was the subject of intense scrutiny regarding his controversial views on vaccines and health misinformation, which prompted questions and concerns from legislators across the aisle.
His appointment is part of President Trump’s broader initiative to reshape the federal cabinet. This week has seen the confirmation of several contentious nominees, including Tulsi Gabbard as director of National Intelligence. In addition to managing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Kennedy’s portfolio includes responsibility for grant programs and policies influencing American dietary needs and pharmaceutical regulations.
Kennedy’s history as founder of the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense has fueled debate about his fitness for this critical governmental role. While he has argued for rigorous safety testing on vaccines, critics including his cousin Caroline Kennedy, have raised alarms about his history of promoting discredited narratives concerning vaccine safety.
Despite opposition from health advocates and dissent within his party, Kennedy received support from some Republicans who laud his critiques of food additives and pharmaceutical monopolies. Several lawmakers challenged his stances during confirmation hearings, leading to heated exchanges with protestors and applause when he vowed to prioritize public health under the Trump administration's slogan to "make America healthy again."
The path forward for his confirmation came under the watchful eyes of senators, particularly doctor Bill Cassidy, who despite earlier reticence, opted to support Kennedy in the end. As the Senate proceeds with more nominations, the next weeks promise to position Kennedy at the forefront of pivotal health policymaking in the US.
His appointment is part of President Trump’s broader initiative to reshape the federal cabinet. This week has seen the confirmation of several contentious nominees, including Tulsi Gabbard as director of National Intelligence. In addition to managing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Kennedy’s portfolio includes responsibility for grant programs and policies influencing American dietary needs and pharmaceutical regulations.
Kennedy’s history as founder of the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense has fueled debate about his fitness for this critical governmental role. While he has argued for rigorous safety testing on vaccines, critics including his cousin Caroline Kennedy, have raised alarms about his history of promoting discredited narratives concerning vaccine safety.
Despite opposition from health advocates and dissent within his party, Kennedy received support from some Republicans who laud his critiques of food additives and pharmaceutical monopolies. Several lawmakers challenged his stances during confirmation hearings, leading to heated exchanges with protestors and applause when he vowed to prioritize public health under the Trump administration's slogan to "make America healthy again."
The path forward for his confirmation came under the watchful eyes of senators, particularly doctor Bill Cassidy, who despite earlier reticence, opted to support Kennedy in the end. As the Senate proceeds with more nominations, the next weeks promise to position Kennedy at the forefront of pivotal health policymaking in the US.
