Kennedy Confirmed as HHS Secretary Amid Vaccine Controversy and Party Divide
MedPage Today
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) by a narrow Senate vote of 52-48, despite significant opposition due to his long-standing skepticism about vaccines. Critics, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, raised concerns regarding his qualifications to oversee critical health policies, particularly in relation to vaccines and reproductive rights. Supporters, like Senator Chuck Grassley, praised his dedication to improving public health and addressing fraud in healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. During confirmation hearings, Kennedy faced intense questioning about his vaccine views but assured commitment to CDC protocols for vaccine safety.
