Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before senators for his confirmation hearing as President Donald Trump’s nominee for secretary of health and human services, prompting a grilling from Democrats on his views on vaccines. Kennedy faced disruptions from protesters in the gallery but maintained he is pro-safety and not anti-vaccine. Senators challenged him on past statements and controversial views, with Democrats focusing on vaccines and conservatives raising concerns about his support for abortion rights. Kennedy defended himself, stating that he supports certain vaccines and Trump’s abortion policies. He also discussed the rise in chronic diseases and the impacts of food on health. His nomination has attracted opposition from both the right and left, with negative ad campaigns and warnings from physicians and Nobel laureates. Kennedy’s cousin Caroline Kennedy wrote a letter urging the Senate to deny his confirmation, accusing him of being addicted to attention and power and discouraging parents from vaccinating their children while vaccinating his own. Kennedy must clear multiple hurdles to be confirmed, as he would oversee influential agencies under HHS. Senate Republicans hold the key to his confirmation, with none publicly opposing him so far. The second hearing with him is set for Thursday.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
