The Republican-controlled US Senate is expected to approve Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the new Secretary of Health on Thursday, despite strong opposition from both political parties, as well as concerns from medical and scientific experts. Kennedy, a prominent vaccine conspiracy theorist, narrowly passed a critical vote last week in the Senate Finance Committee, setting the stage for a full Senate vote. The vote is anticipated around 10:30 a.m. (1530 GMT).
Kennedy, the 71-year-old nephew of assassinated President John F. Kennedy, is likely to secure confirmation as Republicans continue to support President Trump’s cabinet appointments. Kennedy, an environmental lawyer without a medical background, has long promoted conspiracy theories linking vaccines to autism and, more recently, spread misinformation regarding COVID-19 vaccines.
His nomination has drawn fierce criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Some Republicans are wary of his past support for abortion, his legal battles against major corporations, and his 2023 bid for the presidency as a Democrat. Meanwhile, Democrats have highlighted his controversial remarks, including his claim that COVID-19 was engineered to spare Jewish people, his linking of school shootings to antidepressants, and other bizarre claims involving dead animals. Additionally, 77 Nobel laureates sent an open letter to the Senate opposing Kennedy’s appointment, warning that his confirmation could jeopardize public health.
“Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a dangerous man, and his appointment could cause significant harm,” said Dr. Paul Offit, head of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Critics, especially Democrats, accuse Republicans of disregarding the risks associated with Kennedy’s promotion. Democratic Senator Patty Murray argued, “Republicans are turning a blind eye to the fact that RFK Jr. has spent decades undermining vaccines. There’s no reason to believe he won’t continue to do so in this new role.”
The Senate has thus far approved all of Trump’s cabinet nominations, despite vocal opposition from Democrats, who have criticized many of the appointees for their lack of experience and, in some cases, questioned their patriotism. On Wednesday, the Senate confirmed Tulsi Gabbard to lead the intelligence services, despite concerns about her inexperience and past associations with US adversaries Russia and Syria.
Gabbard’s confirmation highlights Trump’s tight grip on the Republican Party, as he continues to push through controversial cabinet choices. His defense secretary pick, accused of sexual assault, an attorney general alleged to have trafficked a minor, and an FBI chief accused of political revenge have all been approved or are still under consideration. Only former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, a suspected sex trafficker, was rejected by the Senate.
