Washington, D.C. — President-elect Donald Trump plans to nominate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent vaccine skeptic and conspiracy theorist, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), according to reports first published by Politico and later confirmed by CNN. The move comes as a surprise to some, though Trump’s press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, hinted in a Fox News interview that Kennedy was “qualified” and could be expected to join the incoming administration.
The nomination has sparked apprehension among public health experts who worry that Kennedy’s long-held anti-vaccine views could disrupt essential public health efforts. Kennedy has been a vocal critic of vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccines rolled out during Trump’s first term, raising concerns about his potential impact on HHS’s role in funding vaccine development and distribution programs. Public health officials argue that such programs are vital to combating disease and preventing outbreaks, which they fear could be jeopardized under Kennedy’s leadership.
Kennedy, once a presidential candidate himself, is anticipated to face strong opposition from Senate Democrats, with potential defections from within the GOP as well. With a slim Republican majority in the Senate, Kennedy’s confirmation may hinge on winning over moderate Republicans and GOP centrists like Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Susan Collins (R-ME), who have signaled unease over the nomination.
Some Republican senators, however, have shown openness to Kennedy’s appointment. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), who narrowly lost his bid for Senate Majority Leader, urged his colleagues to consider Kennedy’s qualifications without “preconceived notions.” “I don’t have any preconceived notions about it. I think we just ought to be open to doing our job,” Cornyn told Politico.
Kennedy’s nomination is part of a series of controversial Cabinet picks by Trump, many of which have met with muted responses on Capitol Hill. Political analysts suggest that the subdued reaction is due to a continuous stream of nominations that have stirred debates, making lawmakers cautious about each new announcement.
As Kennedy prepares to face the Senate’s scrutiny, public health advocates have voiced concerns about the implications for vaccine programs and public trust. In the past, Kennedy has championed conspiracy theories about vaccine safety, which critics fear may undermine efforts to control diseases that vaccines have nearly eradicated in the United States. Democrats are expected to mount a strong resistance, but the outcome of the nomination will ultimately rest on how many Republicans are willing to support or oppose Kennedy’s appointment to this critical role.
Sources:
- Politico. “Trump to Nominate RFK Jr. for HHS Secretary,” November 16, 2024.
- CNN. “Trump’s Controversial HHS Pick Stirs Capitol Hill,” November 16, 2024.
- Leavitt, K., Trump Press Secretary. Fox News interview, November 16, 2024.
- Cornyn, J., U.S. Senator. Statement to Politico, November 16, 2024.
