Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has taken a significant step toward being confirmed as the U.S. health secretary after a Senate committee approved his nomination on a 14-13 party-line vote. All Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee supported Kennedy, a figure known for his controversial stances on vaccines, as he prepares for a full Senate vote, where Republicans maintain a 53-47 majority.
RFK Jr. Advances in Health Secretary Bid Following Senate Committee Vote
RFK Jr. Advances in Health Secretary Bid Following Senate Committee Vote
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. clears Senate committee with a party-line vote, moving toward full Senate confirmation.
During the hearings, senators raised concerns about Kennedy's health expertise and his history of vaccine skepticism. He defended his stance, claiming he is not anti-vaccine but rather advocates for stricter safety regulations. However, his past remarks were scrutinized, particularly a statement suggesting no vaccines are completely "safe and effective."
Independent Senator Bernie Sanders expressed initial support for Kennedy's campaign slogan, "Make America Healthy Again," but later confronted him with images of anti-vaccine apparel sold by Children's Health Defence, the organization Kennedy previously led. In response, Kennedy asserted that he no longer directs the organization.
Although no Democrats were swayed during the hearings, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, a practicing physician, announced his support after receiving promises from Kennedy and the White House. Should the Senate confirm Kennedy, he would oversee pivotal health agencies, including the CDC and FDA.
Kennedy has hinted at a potential overhaul of these agencies and intends to examine food additives in the U.S. food supply. His confirmation process will continue as he delves into the responsibilities and challenges of leading public health initiatives amidst growing scrutiny of his past statements and affiliations.
Independent Senator Bernie Sanders expressed initial support for Kennedy's campaign slogan, "Make America Healthy Again," but later confronted him with images of anti-vaccine apparel sold by Children's Health Defence, the organization Kennedy previously led. In response, Kennedy asserted that he no longer directs the organization.
Although no Democrats were swayed during the hearings, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, a practicing physician, announced his support after receiving promises from Kennedy and the White House. Should the Senate confirm Kennedy, he would oversee pivotal health agencies, including the CDC and FDA.
Kennedy has hinted at a potential overhaul of these agencies and intends to examine food additives in the U.S. food supply. His confirmation process will continue as he delves into the responsibilities and challenges of leading public health initiatives amidst growing scrutiny of his past statements and affiliations.
