Trump’s Nominee for Health Chief Defends Record Amid Criticism from Democrats and Protesters
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, faced heated questioning during his Senate confirmation hearing on January 29. Democratic lawmakers sharply criticised him for his controversial anti-vaccine views, accusing him of promoting conspiracy theories that undermine trust in life-saving medical interventions.
Kennedy, a prominent environmental lawyer, sought to clarify his position, asserting that he believes vaccines are vital for public health and that all his children are vaccinated. “Vaccines play a critical role in healthcare. We have the highest chronic disease burden in the world… This is an existential threat,” he told the Senate Finance Committee.
However, his past remarks, including claims that no vaccine was entirely safe, raised concerns among Democratic senators. They referenced his long history of questioning vaccine safety, as well as unfounded statements linking COVID-19 to racial targeting and suggesting that Lyme disease might be a military bioweapon. “He has made it his life’s work to spread doubt and discourage vaccination,” said Senator Ron Wyden, accusing Kennedy of associating with dangerous anti-vaccine figures.
Despite the criticism, some Republican senators supported Kennedy, applauding his goals to tackle chronic illnesses such as obesity and diabetes. Senator Ron Johnson emphasised the need for collective action to address these health challenges.
Kennedy’s potential confirmation would place him at the helm of the department responsible for overseeing over $3 trillion in healthcare spending, including Medicare and Medicaid, which provide coverage to millions of Americans. If confirmed, Kennedy would have a significant influence on U.S. health policy, but his confirmation is uncertain.
During the hearing, Kennedy was questioned about his involvement with the Children’s Health Defense, an anti-vaccine organisation he founded. He denied responsibility for controversial merchandise sold by the group, including baby clothes bearing anti-vaccine slogans. He also distanced himself from past statements regarding the pharmaceutical industry and abortion rights, agreeing with Trump’s stance that states should determine abortion access.
Protesters interrupted the hearing, and a rally organised by healthcare advocacy group Protect Our Care showcased mock headstones to highlight the consequences of vaccine misinformation, specifically referencing a 2019 measles outbreak in Samoa. Kennedy denied any involvement in spreading misinformation during the outbreak.
The Finance Committee is expected to vote on Kennedy’s nomination, and he will appear before another Senate panel on health later this week. Analysts predict a “50/50” chance of his confirmation. If not confirmed, Kennedy’s rejection could lead to a surge in biotech stocks, with companies like Moderna and Novavax seeing significant fluctuations.
The Senate, controlled by Republicans, has so far not rejected any of Trump’s nominations, though Kennedy’s confirmation remains uncertain amid growing opposition.
