RFK Jr Takes Office as US Health and Human Services Secretary Amid Controversy

Kennedy's confirmation by the Senate comes as he prepares to manage key health agencies amid bipartisan concerns regarding his stance on vaccinations and public health policies.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was officially sworn in as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services, following his controversial nomination by President Donald Trump. The former presidential candidate will now lead a department with a workforce of approximately 80,000 and oversee a budget exceeding a trillion dollars. His confirmation, achieved through a narrow 52-48 Senate vote, drew no support from Democrats and included dissent from some Republicans, notably former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Trump lauded Kennedy’s ascension as part of his broader strategy to reshape the government. Simultaneously, the Senate is working diligently to finalize confirmations of Trump’s outstanding cabinet nominees, including Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture.

Kennedy's appointment follows his history as an outspoken figure on health issues, particularly regarding vaccinations. He founded the advocacy group Children's Health Defense, which questions vaccine safety and has promoted theories linking vaccines to autism, claims that have been widely discredited. Despite this, Kennedy has contended that he is not opposed to vaccinations, emphasizing his belief in enhanced testing and studies regarding their safety.

The Senate hearings surrounding Kennedy's confirmation featured intense scrutiny where lawmakers probed his past comments about vaccines and overall knowledge of the US healthcare system. He was also questioned about his stance on abortion, where he suggested that individual states should have the authority to regulate access while expressing that he views every abortion as a tragedy. This position drew ire from some Democrats, who accused him of compromising his pro-choice principles.

At the hearing, moments of chaos punctuated the proceedings, with protesters interrupting at various points, while Kennedy also received moments of support when he pledged to improve the nation's health—a slogan resonant with Trump's administration. Additionally, Caroline Kennedy, a cousin to Robert, publicly condemned his selection, citing his views on vaccines as disqualifying for a health leadership role.

Despite mixed responses within the Republican Party, some members embraced Kennedy's critical stance on food additives and efforts to limit pharmaceutical influence. As the Senate advances further nominations, attention turns to other candidates like Howard Lutnick for Commerce Secretary and Kash Patel for FBI Director, amidst a backdrop of contention surrounding Kennedy’s health directives as he moves into his new role.