Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump's pick for Health and Human Services Secretary, faced a second day of Senate confirmation hearings following a heated first day dominated by Democrats' concerns. Thursday's session was before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Wednesday's hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, which will vote on his confirmation, saw intense clashes over Kennedy's past controversial statements on vaccines. Despite the contentious atmosphere and Kennedy's sometimes uneven responses, his confirmation appears likely. No Republican committee members voiced opposition to his nomination to lead crucial agencies like the CDC, FDA, NIH, and CMS.
Democratic senators repeatedly questioned Kennedy's vaccine views, including past claims linking vaccines to autism, which have been scientifically refuted. They also highlighted his leadership role in Children's Health Defense, an organization that has campaigned against vaccines and frequently sued the federal government, including challenging the COVID vaccine authorization for children. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) criticized Kennedy for “embracing conspiracy theories” and “sowing doubt” about vaccines.
Kennedy defended himself, stating his support for vaccines like measles and polio, and pledged not to hinder vaccine access if confirmed. He insisted his previous podcast statements had been debunked. However, senators like Michael Bennet (D-CO) accused him of spreading misinformation. Even Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a longtime acquaintance of Kennedy's, expressed concern, saying, “Frankly, you frighten people.”
Several protesters interrupted the hearing, shouting accusations and holding signs opposing Kennedy's nomination. They were promptly removed by Capitol Police.
Kennedy, a member of a prominent political family, ran for president first as a Democrat, then as an independent, before endorsing Donald Trump. This endorsement led to Trump's nomination of Kennedy to the HHS post. Kennedy’s past support for abortion rights has also drawn criticism from some social conservatives, but he has recently aligned his position with Trump's, stating that every abortion is a tragedy.
Kennedy’s responses to questions about reforming Medicare and Medicaid were sometimes unclear, leading to corrections from senators. He denied any plans to dismantle Medicaid, emphasizing his intent to improve the programs. He also pledged to prioritize Americans' health if confirmed, emphasizing preventative health and addressing chronic diseases. He attributed Democratic opposition to his association with Trump.
With Republicans holding a Senate majority, Kennedy's confirmation seems probable, barring unexpected defections. While some Republicans expressed confidence in Kennedy's performance, Democrats continued their criticism after the hearing. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) characterized Kennedy’s beliefs as “crazy, loony conspiracy beliefs,” while Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), a potential Democratic supporter of Kennedy, acknowledged the hearing hadn't gone well for the nominee.
Despite the controversy, Republican senators like Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Jim Banks (R-IN) voiced support for Kennedy, suggesting a likely confirmation.
