Robert F. Kennedy Jr. achieved a significant milestone on Tuesday as a Senate panel voted to move forward his nomination for health and human services secretary to the full chamber. The Senate Finance Committee, in a vote divided along party lines, advanced Kennedy’s nomination after addressing concerns raised by Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., regarding his previous anti-vaccine positions.
Cassidy, a doctor and chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, had expressed doubts about Kennedy’s qualifications to lead the extensive agency. Following two confirmation hearings and discussions with Kennedy and the White House, Cassidy acknowledged having reservations but ultimately decided to support Kennedy’s nomination, citing commitments from the administration and shared priorities such as promoting healthy foods and an American-focused agenda.
Kennedy, a member of the prominent Democratic family, had run for president in 2024 under both the Democratic and independent banners before withdrawing to endorse Trump. During his campaign, he emphasized a “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, criticizing food manufacturers and advocating for healthier dietary choices.
While some senators from both parties endorsed efforts to enhance food safety, concerns were raised during questioning about Kennedy’s knowledge of Medicaid, a crucial aspect of the health secretary’s role. Democratic senators highlighted potential conflicts of interest if Kennedy were confirmed, including financial implications related to ongoing litigation against a vaccine manufacturer under the jurisdiction of the HHS secretary.
One of the primary objections to Kennedy centered on his persistent skepticism about vaccine effectiveness. During committee hearings, Cassidy challenged Kennedy’s rejection of scientific evidence disproving a link between vaccines and autism, emphasizing the importance of relying on comprehensive evidence rather than selective data.
Cassidy, who faces reelection in 2026 and has already encountered a primary challenger due to his vote to convict Trump in the 2021 impeachment trial, played a pivotal role in scrutinizing Kennedy’s nomination and ultimately supporting his advancement in the Senate confirmation process.
