Senate Confirms Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Kennedy's approval ignites debate surrounding his doubts about vaccines and resistance from his family.
On February 13, 2025, the United States Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) with a vote of 52-48.
The confirmation largely split along party lines, with all Democrats and one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing the nomination due to Kennedy’s previous comments on vaccine safety.
Kennedy, aged 71, is an environmental attorney and vocal vaccine critic who has led the nonprofit Children’s Health Defense, which has questioned vaccine policies and advocated alternative health viewpoints.
His nomination by President Donald Trump encountered significant pushback from public health experts and even some members of his family.
During the confirmation hearings, Kennedy assured legislators that he would follow evidence-based health policies and committed to regular oversight meetings with the Senate.
Nonetheless, critics remained wary of his history of promoting medical misinformation.
There was notable family dissent regarding his nomination, with his cousin, U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, labeling him a 'predator' and publicly condemning his appointment.
Other members of 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 impact federal health initiatives and vaccine programs amidst continued public discourse.
The confirmation largely split along party lines, with all Democrats and one Republican, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, opposing the nomination due to Kennedy’s previous comments on vaccine safety.
Kennedy, aged 71, is an environmental attorney and vocal vaccine critic who has led the nonprofit Children’s Health Defense, which has questioned vaccine policies and advocated alternative health viewpoints.
His nomination by President Donald Trump encountered significant pushback from public health experts and even some members of his family.
During the confirmation hearings, Kennedy assured legislators that he would follow evidence-based health policies and committed to regular oversight meetings with the Senate.
Nonetheless, critics remained wary of his history of promoting medical misinformation.
There was notable family dissent regarding his nomination, with his cousin, U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, labeling him a 'predator' and publicly condemning his appointment.
Other members of 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 impact federal health initiatives and vaccine programs amidst continued public discourse.
