In a Senate Panel vote in the United States on Tuesday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination has been advanced for the health and human services secretary to the full chamber.
Kennedy had been selected by the Senate on a 14-13 vote mainly due to the uncertain position of Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La being turned in his favor.
Kennedy faced a major challenge from Cassidy due to his disproven theories about vaccines causing autism. Cassidy raised the issue with him, seeking assurance that no such declaration would be made, challenging well-established science.
Cassidy through social media said, “I’ve had very intense conversations with Bobby and the White House over the weekend and even this morning.”
He added, “With the serious commitments I’ve received from the administration and the opportunity to make progress on the issues we agree on like healthy foods and a pro-American agenda, I will vote yes.”
Kennedy also has the support of President Trump, who, before his nomination, wrote on Truth Social, “20 years ago, autism in children was 1 in 10,000. NOW IT’S 1 in 34. WOW! Something’s really wrong. We need BOBBY!!! Thank you! DJT.”
Clearance of Kennedy’s nomination by the Senate was also obscure due to his fumbling in answering basic questions about Medicaid, which constitutes a significant part of the job of health secretary.
Kennedy would be supervising agencies that set the nation’s health agenda, including the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Kennedy has been supported by Republicans due to his assurance of backing Trump’s policies to restrict abortions, a complete reversal from his earlier pro-choice stance on the topic.
