GOP-Led Senate Approves Kennedy Despite Controversy
The Republican-controlled Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Thursday, despite concerns over his history of anti-vaccine activism. The confirmation vote was 52-48, largely along party lines. Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was the sole Republican to oppose Kennedy, citing concerns over public health trust.
“Mr. Kennedy failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America’s largest health agency,” McConnell stated. “I hope he will restore trust rather than sow further doubt and division.”
Overcoming GOP Skepticism
Kennedy managed to gain support from key Republicans, including Senators Bill Cassidy (La.), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), and Susan Collins (Maine). Cassidy, who chairs the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, initially hesitated but ultimately voted in favor after receiving reassurances from Kennedy about maintaining vaccine advisory committees and keeping CDC statements on vaccine safety.
Murkowski and Collins also backed Kennedy after he assured them he would base vaccine policies on scientific evidence. “These commitments provide assurance for my vote,” Murkowski wrote on X.
Leading a $1.7 Trillion Health Agency
As HHS Secretary, Kennedy will oversee the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. His responsibilities will include pandemic preparedness, managing government-funded healthcare, and regulating pharmaceutical development.
