RFK Jr. Confirmed as HHS Secretary

RFK Jr. Confirmed as HHS Secretary: A Polarizing Vote Reshapes U.S. Health Policy

The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary on February 13, 2025, in a 52-48 party-line vote. The decision sparks debates over vaccine policy, Medicare reforms, and the future of agencies like the CDC and FDA.

Kennedy, a former anti-vaccine activist and 2024 presidential candidate, secured Republican support despite skepticism. His promises to senators like Bill Cassidy (R-LA) to preserve CDC vaccine guidelines and avoid “reckless changes” were pivotal.

Controversies dominated hearings: Kennedy’s 2019 Samoa trip (linked to a measles outbreak) and financial ties to lawsuits against Merck’s HPV vaccine drew sharp criticism. Democrats called his promises “untrustworthy”.

Mitch McConnell (R-KY), a polio survivor, was the lone Republican opposing Kennedy: “I will not condone re-litigating proven cures.” His stance highlights GOP divisions on science and Trump’s influence.

• NIH Budget: $45B (2024) → Proposed $38B (2025)
• Medicaid Cuts: $880B over 10 years (House GOP plan)

❗ Key Fact: 1 in 36 U.S. children have autism diagnoses—a rise Kennedy falsely linked to vaccines during hearings.

Kennedy’s agenda includes a “Make America Healthy Again” commission, targeting ultra-processed foods and chronic diseases. Critics warn his NIH staff cuts and focus on “alternative research” could weaken pandemic preparedness :cite[5]:cite[8].