RFK Jr. takes one step closer to becoming US health director

2025-02-05 02:25:37

(MENAFN) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has moved closer to being confirmed as the next US Secretary of health and Human Services after the Senate Finance Committee voted 14-13 in favor of his nomination, with all Republicans supporting it and all Democrats opposing.

Kennedy, 71, an environmental lawyer and vocal vaccine skeptic, faced intense questioning during his confirmation hearings. Although initially hesitant, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a physician, ultimately backed Kennedy after receiving assurances about his commitment to public health, particularly in regards to vaccines.

Democratic opposition, led by Senator Ron Wyden, centered on concerns that Kennedy’s views could undermine public trust in vaccines and public health initiatives. Wyden expressed fears that Kennedy might support plans to cut Medicaid and reduce healthcare access for Americans.

With the Senate's Republican majority, Kennedy’s nomination is expected to be voted on in the coming days, with a simple majority needed for confirmation. Nominated by President Donald Trump shortly after his reelection, Kennedy, if confirmed, will oversee critical health agencies, including the CDC, FDA, and NIH. Trump has endorsed Kennedy, emphasizing his concerns about rising autism rates and his desire for Kennedy’s leadership in health reform.

Kennedy is the son of former US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of President John F. Kennedy, and has been a prominent critic of Covid-19 policies.

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