Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced intense scrutiny during his second Senate confirmation hearing this Thursday, as he seeks to become the head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). His history of controversial views regarding vaccines was front and center, prompting tough questions from both Democratic and some Republican senators.
Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician and committee chair, expressed concern about supporting Kennedy’s nomination after several hours of questioning. “I have a dilemma over whether to support Kennedy’s confirmation,” Cassidy stated.
‘Gold Standard Science’
Throughout the hearing, Kennedy advocated for a return to “gold standard science” and indicated that he would endorse vaccines should credible safety data be presented. However, when confronted with existing studies, he often claimed unfamiliarity or expressed skepticism.
When Cassidy referenced a 2014 meta-analysis involving 1.2 million children that found no correlation between vaccines and autism, Kennedy responded, “You show me those scientific studies, and you and I can meet about it.” This prompted Cassidy to share his real-world experiences as a physician, highlighting instances where vaccination could have prevented serious health issues, including recent deaths in Louisiana attributed to vaccine-preventable diseases.
Cassidy pressed Kennedy, “Can a 71-year-old man who has spent decades criticizing vaccines — can he change his perspectives now that he’ll hold a key role in directing U.S. vaccine policy?” His support is particularly crucial, as he is also a member of the Finance committee that influences the nomination process.
Bipartisan Vaccine Concerns
Republicans on the committee, including Senator Tom Tuberville, appeared to align with Kennedy’s views on vaccines, with Tuberville making dismissive remarks about the necessity of vaccinations for newborns. In contrast, Kennedy struggled to provide clear answers about his prior anti-vaccine activism, which several senators pointed out has influenced public sentiment against vaccinations.
During questioning from Senator Patty Murray, Kennedy acknowledged he would advise parents to vaccinate their children against measles. However, when pressed by Cassidy to unequivocally state that certain vaccines do not cause autism, Kennedy refrained from giving a clear answer.
Emotional Testimonies
Senator Maggie Hassan emotionally recalled her son’s cerebral palsy during questioning, emphasizing the importance of addressing the societal concerns and doubts surrounding vaccine safety. Meanwhile, Senator Angela Alsobrooks challenged Kennedy on his previous comments about vaccine schedules for different ethnic groups, deeming such statements dangerous and unfounded.
Kennedy’s controversial positions continued to arise, as Democrats confronted him about unfounded claims relating to technology causing health issues and assorted conspiracy theories. When questioned about his remark concerning the 9/11 attacks, Kennedy stated his father taught him that “people in authority lie.”
Health Policy Knowledge in Question
In both hearings, Kennedy displayed a concerning lack of knowledge regarding Medicare and Medicaid, key programs he would oversee if confirmed. Senator Bernie Sanders highlighted this inadequacy, pointing out that Kennedy would significantly influence health care policy. Kennedy was only able to recall the Trump administration’s vague desire to improve existing health coverage frameworks.
