WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Senate is expected to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Thursday morning, following a contentious nomination process that raised concerns across both Republican and Democratic lawmakers.
Kennedy’s Path to Confirmation
Key Highlights:
- All Senate Republicans voted to advance Kennedy’s nomination in a procedural vote Wednesday.
- Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), a physician and swing vote, backed Kennedy after receiving “serious commitments” for collaboration.
- Republican Senators Susan Collins (ME) and Lisa Murkowski (AK), who often oppose controversial nominees, announced their support.
- Senate Democrats strongly opposed Kennedy, calling him unqualified and a threat to public health policy.
What’s at Stake?
If confirmed, Kennedy will lead the HHS Department, which oversees:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Who is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.?
Background:
- Age: 71
- Former environmental lawyer
- Ex-president of the Waterkeeper Alliance
- Founder of Children’s Health Defense, known for opposing vaccine mandates
- Nephew of President John F. Kennedy, son of Robert F. Kennedy
- Ran for President in 2023 before endorsing Trump in August 2024
Controversies & Criticism
Vaccine Opposition:
- Kennedy has questioned vaccine safety for decades.
- Senate Democrats warn his leadership could undermine public trust in vaccinations.
- Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR): “The least qualified nominee ever for a position of this importance.”
Abortion & Health Policy:
- His stance on reproductive rights has alarmed pro-choice advocates.
- Opposes federal vaccine mandates and some public health interventions.
Republican Support Grows
Why Republicans Back Kennedy:
- Trump vowed to let Kennedy “go wild” on health, food, and medicine policies.
- Sen. Cassidy’s backing was pivotal, citing a direct working relationship with Kennedy.
- GOP prioritizing deregulation and shifting HHS leadership toward “health freedom.”
Kennedy’s Vision for HHS
Kennedy’s Key Statements:
- “Americans’ overall health is in a grievous condition.”
- Pledged to address obesity, diabetes, and chronic disease rates.
- Wants to “Make America Healthy Again”, aligning with Trump’s health reform agenda.
Final Senate Vote Expected Thursday Morning
With Republican backing and no sign of party defections, Kennedy is poised for confirmation as HHS Secretary, despite significant opposition from Senate Democrats.
