Emmanuel OchayiRobert F. Kennedy Jr, one of President Donald Trump’s most controversial cabinet picks, has been sworn in as the next US Health Secretary. The Senate confirmed him in a 52-48 vote on Thursday, with no Democrats supporting his nomination. Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell was the lone Republican to vote against him.
Kennedy will now lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), overseeing key agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He will be responsible for policies on public health, vaccinations, food safety, and pharmaceuticals.
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Lawmakers raised concerns over Kennedy’s history of vaccine skepticism and health misinformation. His confirmation hearings were marked by heated exchanges, protests, and strong criticism from both parties.
During the hearings, Kennedy defended his position on vaccines. “I am not anti-vaccine. My own children are vaccinated. I simply support more rigorous studies and safety tests,” he said.
Despite his reassurances, many lawmakers remained skeptical. McConnell, a polio survivor, openly criticized Kennedy’s views. “A record of trafficking in dangerous conspiracy theories and eroding trust in public health institutions does not entitle Mr. Kennedy to lead these important efforts,” he said before voting against confirmation.
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Health Secretary’s Role and Responsibilities
As Health Secretary, Kennedy will oversee an agency with about 80,000 employees and a budget exceeding $1 trillion. He will be responsible for shaping the nation’s health policies, including Medicare, Medicaid, and public health initiatives.
Kennedy’s leadership will also influence the FDA’s regulatory decisions on pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Additionally, he will play a key role in responding to health crises, including infectious disease outbreaks and drug pricing regulations.
Reactions from Lawmakers and Public Figures
Kennedy’s confirmation drew mixed reactions. Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican and a doctor, previously expressed doubts about Kennedy’s stance on vaccines but ultimately voted in favor of confirmation.
“We need to make America healthy again, and it is my expectation that Secretary Kennedy will get this done,” Cassidy posted on X after the vote.
Caroline Kennedy, Kennedy’s cousin, had publicly urged senators to reject his nomination. “His views on vaccines disqualify him from this role,” she said in a statement before the vote.
Protests and Public Response
Kennedy’s confirmation hearings were disrupted by protesters who voiced concerns about his past health statements. One hearing was briefly paused after demonstrators shouted objections from the gallery.
Despite opposition, Kennedy received support from conservative groups and some Republican lawmakers who praised his stance against pharmaceutical companies and food additives.
Kennedy’s Political Background
Kennedy ran for president in 2024 as an independent but later withdrew from the race and endorsed Trump. His political shift from a Democratic background to aligning with Trump’s administration has surprised many.
Throughout his career, Kennedy has been vocal on environmental issues and public health. He founded the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense, which has questioned the safety of vaccines and other medical practices.
Future Challenges as Health Secretary
Kennedy faces significant challenges as Health Secretary. His past statements on vaccines and public health policies have created distrust among medical professionals and public health experts.
Additionally, he will need to address key issues such as healthcare costs, drug pricing, and public health preparedness. Many lawmakers have emphasized the need for Kennedy to work closely with scientists and health experts to ensure evidence-based policies.
Senate confirmations continue for Trump’s cabinet nominees. After Kennedy, lawmakers are set to vote on Howard Lutnick for Secretary of Commerce and Kash Patel for FBI Director. Trump’s administration is rapidly filling key positions as he pushes forward with his second-term agenda.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
