Kennedy Advances in Nomination for Health and Human Services Secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. moves closer to becoming Health and Human Services Secretary after a narrow Senate committee approval, facing scrutiny over his past vaccine skepticism and health advocacy.
Mom influencer Diana Atieh joined 'Fox & Friends First' to discuss her support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services Secretary alongside other 'crunchy moms' and her thoughts on the potential dismantling of the Education Department.
Kennedy, a vaccine skeptic and environmental advocate who recently endorsed Donald Trump after ending his presidential bid, continues to push for a cabinet role in the 47th president's administration. His nomination was approved by a narrow vote of 14-13 by the Senate Finance Committee, which consists of 14 Republicans and 13 Democrats.
Despite a slow progression compared to other nominees, Kennedy has survived intense Senate confirmation hearings. He faced scrutiny over his history of controversial statements, particularly his debunked claims linking vaccines to autism.
During the recent hearings, Democrats highlighted Kennedy's role as chair and legal counsel for Children's Health Defense, an organization he founded that opposes vaccines and has frequently sued the federal government regarding vaccine policies.
Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician and chair of the Senate Health Committee, ultimately endorsed Kennedy despite initial concerns over his past remarks undermining trust in vaccines. Cassidy's support is crucial, given the partisan divisions and the necessity for some GOP backing for Kennedy's confirmation.
Kennedy, part of a prominent political family, switched from a Democratic presidential run to an independent campaign in 2023 before endorsing Trump. He aims to refocus the Department of Health and Human Services on holistic health and dietary reforms, advocating against ultra-processed foods and addressing chronic illness.
With a Republican majority in the Senate, Kennedy's path to confirmation remains dependent on maintaining GOP support, especially if Democrats oppose his nomination.
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