Senate Confirms Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as HHS Secretary Amid Controversy
The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) in President Donald Trump’s cabinet on Thursday, January 30, 2025. The Republican-controlled Senate voted 52-48, nearly along party lines, to approve Kennedy’s nomination. The confirmation followed heated hearings, during which Democrats raised concerns about Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines and his leadership of the nonprofit organization Children’s Health Defense, which has advocated against vaccines and sued the federal government.
Kennedy, a well-known vaccine skeptic and environmental activist, previously ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2024 before switching to an independent bid and later endorsing Trump. His nomination faced opposition from some Republicans, including Sen. Mitch McConnell, who cited Kennedy’s past statements undermining confidence in vaccines. However, Kennedy secured support from key Republicans, including Sen. Bill Cassidy, who highlighted Kennedy’s commitments to transparency and collaboration with Congress on vaccine safety.
Kennedy’s confirmation marks a significant shift in U.S. health policy, as he has pledged to focus on promoting healthy lifestyles, overhauling dietary guidelines, and addressing chronic diseases. His “Make America Healthy Again” campaign emphasizes reducing reliance on pharmaceuticals and improving access to whole foods. Critics, including the Democratic National Committee, have expressed concerns about his history of spreading medical misinformation, while supporters argue his approach prioritizes personal accountability and transparency in healthcare.
The confirmation also underscores the deepening political divisions within the Kennedy family, with several family members, including Caroline Kennedy, publicly opposing his nomination and criticizing his alignment with Trump. Despite the controversy, Kennedy’s appointment signals a new direction for HHS, with a focus on reforming food systems, increasing healthcare access, and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable.
Senate confirms Robert F Kennedy Jr. to serve as Trump's Health secretary
The Senate on Thursday confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary in President Donald Trump's cabinet.
www.foxnews.com
RFK Jr.’s top health and wellness priorities as doctors share input
Following the Thursday confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of Health and Human Services, doctors weigh in on the new secretary’s plans to ma
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Teddy’s Tomb: The Kennedys Have Fallen Apart
The late senator fought to preserve the family’s political brand, but with RFK Jr. in Trump’s Cabinet, it’s hard to tell what that brand has become.
www.politico.com
RFK Jr sworn in as US Health and Human Services chief
Kennedy will oversee the US health industry including food safety, pharmaceuticals and vaccinations.
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RFK Jr. Outlines Priorities on Food, Vaccines, and Personnel
In a post-confirmation interview on Fox News, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he wouldn’t ban vaccines and has a ‘list’ of people to fire.
time.com
RFK Jr. confirmed, elevating anti-vaccine activist to nation’s top health post
The Senate held a final vote on whether to approve Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services secretary after a three-month confirmation figh
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RFK Jr. Won. Now What?
America’s health is in the hands of an anti-vaccine conspiracist.
www.theatlantic.com