Did RFK Jr. get confirmed for Health and Human Services Secretary ?
The Senate moved forward with the RFK Jr. confirmation vote, bringing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. closer to becoming Health and Human Services Secretary. The 53-47 vote followed party lines, signaling a likely confirmation despite bipartisan skepticism over his past vaccine stances. During the first confirmation hearing, senators scrutinized Kennedy’s vaccine stance, citing his leadership of Children’s Health Defense, which questioned vaccine safety. Kennedy denied being anti-vaccine, stating he supports stricter testing. He claimed his remarks were misinterpreted and interrupted before clarifying his views on vaccinations.
Key Senate Decision
The RFK Jr. confirmation vote saw Senate Republicans unify behind Kennedy, dismissing prior concerns about his qualifications. Many questioned whether the former Democrat had a medical background, as HHS secretaries are often doctors. However, RFK Jr. is not a physician—his career began as an environmental lawyer before transitioning into politics. Senator Susan Collins, once hesitant, confirmed her support after Kennedy reassured her about revisiting National Institutes of Health budget cuts.
Bipartisan Concerns Persist
While Kennedy has denied being “anti-vaccine,” he stopped short of rejecting the debunked claim linking vaccines to autism. His past comments and financial stake in lawsuits against vaccine manufacturers have fueled concerns about conflicts of interest.
Cassidy’s Influence on the Vote
Senator Bill Cassidy, a key Republican on the Senate Health Committee, initially expressed skepticism but ultimately backed Kennedy. Cassidy emphasized the importance of scientific integrity, affirming that vaccines are safe and effective while pledging oversight of Kennedy’s policies.
Final Confirmation Vote Expected
With the procedural hurdle cleared, the final RFK Jr. confirmation vote is set for later this week. If confirmed, Kennedy will lead HHS despite ongoing scrutiny regarding his stance on public health policies and past controversial statements.
RFK jr. was recently in news for his video in which he appeared to be mixing a blue liquid in what appeared to be a glass of water.
