Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advanced toward confirmation as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Wednesday after a contentious Senate test vote. In a 53-47 decision split along party lines, senators moved the nomination forward, setting the stage for a final vote. The decision follows intense scrutiny of Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines and his previous role as chairman of the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense.
The HHS, which oversees a $1.7 trillion budget, manages critical programs such as Medicare and Medicaid and regulates food, drugs, and public health initiatives. President Donald Trump nominated Kennedy, a prominent figure from the Democratic Kennedy family, and urged him to "go wild on health." If confirmed, Kennedy plans to focus on combating pesticides, addressing additives in the food supply, and exploring the root causes of disease.
Though Kennedy received strong Republican support, his stance on vaccines raised significant concerns. During the confirmation process, his past comments suggesting a link between vaccines and autism, a claim widely debunked by scientists, alarmed many. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, a Republican from Idaho, defended Kennedy’s commitment to improve healthcare and restore institutional trust. However, Democrats questioned his qualifications and adherence to scientific evidence. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon openly criticized the nomination, calling Kennedy "the least qualified nominee for a position of this importance."
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana sought assurances from Kennedy, securing a commitment to coordinate on health messaging and avoid undermining confidence in vaccines. Despite these efforts, Kennedy’s divisive record left doubts among lawmakers. His nomination follows a complex political trajectory—Kennedy unsuccessfully ran for president as a Democrat in 2024 before switching to an independent, later endorsing President Trump. In return, Trump rewarded him with the high-profile HHS nomination.
Kennedy’s confirmation fight mirrors other contentious nominations under the Trump administration. On the same day, Tulsi Gabbard was confirmed as director of national intelligence, and Pete Hegseth recently secured the role of defense secretary by a narrow margin.
Kennedy’s support stems from a diverse coalition, including conservative skeptics of government narratives and liberal health-conscious individuals. But critics argue his controversial track record could undermine public trust in science-based policy. As this nomination moves toward a final vote, the debate over Kennedy’s suitability only intensifies.
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