Kennedy Jr. Confirmed as HHS Secretary in Close Senate Vote

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services, sparking a firestorm of controversy across party lines.

Quick Takes

Senate confirms Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as HHS Secretary with a slim 52-48 vote.
Kennedy pledges support for vaccines and Trump’s abortion policies during confirmation hearings.
Bipartisan opposition faced due to Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines and pharmaceuticals.
Kennedy aims to focus on promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing chronic diseases.
Confirmation marks a significant moment for the Kennedy political dynasty.

A Contentious Confirmation

In a move that has sent shockwaves through Washington, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services. The Senate’s narrow 52-48 vote reflects the deep divisions surrounding Kennedy’s appointment, with opposition coming from both sides of the aisle. Kennedy, known for his environmental advocacy and vaccine skepticism, faced intense scrutiny throughout the confirmation process.

During the contentious Senate hearings, Kennedy addressed concerns about his past views on vaccines and abortion. In an attempt to assuage fears, he stated:

“I support the measles vaccine. I support the polio vaccine. I will do nothing as HHS secretary that makes it difficult or discourages people from taking either of those vaccines.”

This declaration was crucial in securing support from key Republican senators, including Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who played a pivotal role in advancing Kennedy’s nomination after receiving commitments on vaccine safety oversight.

Aligning with Trump’s Policies

Kennedy’s confirmation was further complicated by his stance on abortion. He pledged to implement President Trump’s first-term agenda, viewing abortion as a state issue and supporting bans on late-term pregnancies. This alignment with Trump’s policies drew criticism from Democrats, including Senator Maggie Hassan.

Kennedy also committed to investigating the safety of the abortion drug mifepristone, a move that has both supporters and detractors on edge. His confirmation follows another controversial appointment, that of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, which also passed with a 52-48 vote.

Challenging the Pharmaceutical Industry

During his confirmation hearings, Kennedy did not shy away from criticizing the pharmaceutical industry’s influence on Congress. He boldly stated:

“The problem of corruption is not just in the federal agencies, it’s in Congress too. Almost all the members of this panel, including yourself (Sen. Bernie Sanders), are accepting millions of dollars from the pharmaceutical industry and protecting their interests.”

This statement aligns with a Federalist analysis that revealed senators on relevant committees received over $10 million from the pharmaceutical industry between 2019 and 2024. Kennedy’s criticism of Big Pharma and his promise to investigate their influence has resonated with many Americans concerned about healthcare costs and transparency.

Looking Ahead

As Kennedy takes the helm at HHS, he aims to focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, overhauling dietary guidelines, and addressing chronic diseases as part of his “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. However, his appointment continues to face criticism, with the Democratic National Committee labeling him an “unqualified conspiracy theorist.”

Kennedy’s confirmation marks a significant moment for the Kennedy political dynasty, placing him in the most prominent federal role held by a Kennedy since his father’s historic position as attorney general. As he steps into this crucial role, all eyes will be on how he navigates the complex landscape of American healthcare policy and whether he can bridge the deep divisions his appointment has exposed.