Senate Approves Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Kennedy's confirmation ignites debate due to his skepticism towards vaccines and resistance from his family.
On February 13, 2025, the United States Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) with a narrow 52-48 vote.
The confirmation largely adhered to party lines, with all Democrats and one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing the nomination due to Kennedy’s previous remarks regarding vaccine safety.
Kennedy, 71, an environmental attorney and outspoken vaccine critic, has led the nonprofit organization Children’s Health Defense, which has contested vaccine policies and advocated for alternative health views.
His nomination by President Donald Trump encountered substantial resistance from public health professionals and even some members of his own family.
During his confirmation hearings, Kennedy assured lawmakers that he would follow evidence-based health policies and committed to holding regular oversight meetings with the Senate.
Nevertheless, critics continued to express concerns about his history of disseminating medical misinformation.
Family opposition to his nomination was prominent, with his cousin, U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, labeling him a 'predator' and openly rejecting his appointment.
Other relatives from the Kennedy family also distanced themselves from his views on public health.
As HHS Secretary, Kennedy will supervise agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), playing a crucial role in shaping U.S. health policy.
His leadership is anticipated to have a significant impact on federal health initiatives and vaccination programs amid the ongoing public discourse.
The confirmation largely adhered to party lines, with all Democrats and one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing the nomination due to Kennedy’s previous remarks regarding vaccine safety.
Kennedy, 71, an environmental attorney and outspoken vaccine critic, has led the nonprofit organization Children’s Health Defense, which has contested vaccine policies and advocated for alternative health views.
His nomination by President Donald Trump encountered substantial resistance from public health professionals and even some members of his own family.
During his confirmation hearings, Kennedy assured lawmakers that he would follow evidence-based health policies and committed to holding regular oversight meetings with the Senate.
Nevertheless, critics continued to express concerns about his history of disseminating medical misinformation.
Family opposition to his nomination was prominent, with his cousin, U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, labeling him a 'predator' and openly rejecting his appointment.
Other relatives from the Kennedy family also distanced themselves from his views on public health.
As HHS Secretary, Kennedy will supervise agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), playing a crucial role in shaping U.S. health policy.
His leadership is anticipated to have a significant impact on federal health initiatives and vaccination programs amid the ongoing public discourse.
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