RFK Jr. faces tough Senate confirmation hearing

USA – Robert F. Kennedy Jr. attended his first Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday, where he was met with tense exchanges from both Senate Democrats and some Republicans.

The hearing comes as the Trump administration paused health communications, and ceased global health funding and programs, including HIV-medication services.

The hearing, part of his bid to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), revealed stark divisions over his past stance on vaccines, his views on abortion, and his stance on health policy.

Kennedy, a prominent figure known for his anti-vaccine views, is nominated to oversee a US $1.7 trillion department that includes agencies such as the CDC, FDA, and CMS.

He has stated that he intends to “put the health of Americans back on track,” despite his controversial record on vaccines.

The hearing was interrupted by protesters, including some wearing “Make Polio Great Again” shirts, and was also met with applause when Kennedy promised to “make America healthy again.” Protests were held outside the hearing as well.

Some Senate Republicans expressed support for Kennedy’s proposals, especially his focus on chronic disease and expanding healthcare access in rural areas.

Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), chairing the committee, praised Kennedy, saying, “Mr. Kennedy, you represent a voice for an inspiring coalition of Americans who are deeply committed to improving the health and well-being of our nation.”

Shifting views

However, Kennedy faced significant scrutiny from other lawmakers, who questioned his shifting views on abortion, vaccines, and food policy.

Critics pointed out that Kennedy had earned US $2.5 million in referral fees from lawsuits targeting vaccine manufacturers.

Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) specifically pressed him about his refusal to distance himself from the anti-vaccine groups he has supported. Kennedy did not commit to withdrawing from his involvement in the lawsuits.

Kennedy sought to clarify his position, stating, “News reports have claimed that I am anti-vaccine or anti-industry. Well, I am neither; I am pro-safety… All of my kids are vaccinated, and I believe vaccines have a critical role in healthcare.”

Despite these claims, his non-profit, Children’s Health Defense, continues to spread disproven theories, such as the link between vaccines and autism.

In an exchange with Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Kennedy dismissed questions about his leadership at Children’s Health Defense, refusing to acknowledge that healthcare is a human right.

He also implied that those with chronic illnesses or poor health habits should not receive the same healthcare access. He used the example of smokers, saying they would “be taking from the pool” of healthcare costs.

Addressing chronic illness

On a more positive note, Kennedy emphasized his commitment to addressing America’s high drug prices and tackling obesity and addiction epidemics.

He stated, “Something is poisoning the American people and we know that the primary culprits are our changing food supply, highly processed foods,” calling the obesity crisis “an existential threat.” He also voiced support for transitioning to “regenerative” agriculture to produce healthier foods.

While several Democratic senators questioned Kennedy’s pro-choice stance, quoting his past statements in favor of women’s reproductive rights, he remained evasive.

Senator Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire) quoted Kennedy’s 2023 statement, “I’m pro-choice. I don’t think the government should tell people what they cannot do with their body,” and questioned when he had changed his position.

Kennedy did not deny his past beliefs but remarked that “every abortion is a tragedy” and pledged to follow President Trump’s policies on the matter.

Kennedy also addressed his position on climate change, noting that he disagreed with President Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement but promised to implement Trump’s policies on abortion.

When questioned about Medicaid, Kennedy acknowledged its importance but stressed that it could work more effectively.

The hearing followed public criticisms from Kennedy’s relatives. Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy, expressed concern in a letter to senators, accusing RFK Jr. of hypocrisy for vaccinating his children while advocating against vaccines.

Kennedy’s niece, Dr. Kerry Kennedy Meltzer, also released emails showing Kennedy spreading misinformation about vaccines. Despite this, Kennedy reiterated his support for certain vaccines, like those for measles and polio.

“In my advocacy I have often disturbed the status quo by asking uncomfortable questions. Well, I won’t apologize for that. We have massive health problems in this country that we must face honestly.”