The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as President Donald Trump’s health secretary with a 52-48 vote, despite concerns over his views on vaccines.
Kennedy now oversees federal spending of $1.7 trillion, vaccine recommendations, food safety, and health insurance programs for half the country.
Driving the news: While most Republicans supported Kennedy’s vision to focus on chronic diseases like obesity, all Democrats opposed his appointment.
- Kennedy’s populist and controversial views on food, chemicals, and vaccines have garnered a strong following, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- With Trump’s backing, Kennedy emphasizes rebuilding trust in public health agencies such as the FDA, CDC, and NIH.
- Some Senators required assurances from Kennedy regarding existing vaccine recommendations and financial conflicts of interest from his dealings with vaccine makers.
- Kennedy’s past financial ties to law firms suing vaccine makers raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
What we’re watching: Amid a federal government shakeup, Kennedy takes over a department that is facing staffing changes and budget cuts, including caps on medical research funding by the NIH.
- Kennedy has proposed significant staffing overhauls at the NIH, FDA, and CDC, including the termination of 600 employees at the NIH.
