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  • Cheryl Hines, Megyn Kelly, and Vani Hari Form RFK Jr.’s MAHA Cheer Squad at First Confirmation Hearing


    Typically, confirmation hearings for cabinet positions don’t come with raucous applause or screamed proclamations of love. But then again, most cabinet nominees are not Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an oddball player on the modern political scene if there ever was one.

    Kennedy’s own family has spoken against him throughout both his failed presidential campaign and now his Senate confirmation process, most recently via a letter in which cousin Caroline Kennedy called him a “predator.” But he has inspired ardent support from other quarters with his MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) platform. He’s especially popular with the “did my own research,” “earth mama,” wannabe Instagram mommy-influencer types, and they made certainly made their presence known throughout Wednesday’s Senate festivities, with shrieks that were more befitting of a teenybopper at a mall concert than for the halls of Congress. When the hearing was recessed two hours in for a five-minute bathroom break, screeches of “We love you, Bobby!” could be heard over the live feed.

    Beyond the panting fans, a few more familiar faces were visible lending their support to Kennedy, his squad of shiny-haired cheerleaders: Wife Cheryl Hines was there, despite Kennedy’s sexting scandal with a journalist, and offered her husband a peck on the lips as the hearing started. Over his shoulder, she could be seen blinking rapidly throughout the hours of question-and-answer-dodging, leading some on social media to joke that she was trying to transmit a message in Morse Code. Perhaps she was just grappling emotionally with the thought that if her husband is confirmed, she’ll have to stop shilling her $20 MAHA-scented candles within 90 days, denying the world more staged Instagram videos of her septuagenarian husband in the buff. A sacrifice for God and country, indeed.

    Former Fox News host Megyn Kelly, who has declared her support, was also in attendance, as was Vani Hari, writer of the Food Babe blog, several books, and perpetual variations on “I can’t believe how many ingredients are in this cereal.” Hari, in an eye-catching hot pink blazer, gold costume earrings, and bright red lipstick, was unmissable as she nodded animatedly throughout the hearing, smiling hugely at times, like when committee member Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, said that he believed that Kennedy had a “divine purpose” to fulfill in his proposed role. Hari brought her 8-year-old daughter, clad in pale pink, along for the trip, because what pre-tween doesn’t dream of a mommy-and-me day watching Kennedy dance around questions about his past drug use, alleged mistreatment of animals, anti-vaccine views, and newly aired stance against reproductive rights?

    Marla Maples, the ex-wife of the current president, was seated further back in the chamber. Kennedy superfan Jessica Reed Kraus, who on Tuesday posted to her Instagram stories on @HouseInhabit begging for help getting into the hearing, apparently had her wish granted. She shared snaps of herself holding yet another baseball cap, this one reading “Confirm RFK Jr.” (because if a hat doesn’t say it, then is it even worth saying?), and a text-only slide insisting that the committee “confirm Bobby based simply on his tan.”

    Kennedy will sit for a second confirmation hearing Thursday.





    Renowned environmental activist and lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently had a group of famous supporters by his side at his first confirmation hearing for his nomination as head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Actress Cheryl Hines, former news anchor Megyn Kelly, and food activist Vani Hari all came together to form RFK Jr.’s MAHA (Mothers Advocating Healthy Air) Cheer Squad.

    The trio of powerful women donned matching t-shirts emblazoned with the words “Protect Our Planet” and waved pom-poms as they cheered on Kennedy during his hearing. Hines, known for her work in environmental conservation, spoke passionately about the importance of clean air and water for future generations.

    Kelly, who has recently taken a more active role in advocating for environmental causes, emphasized the need for strong leadership at the EPA in order to combat the climate crisis. Hari, a vocal critic of harmful food additives, highlighted the connection between environmental health and personal well-being.

    The support of these influential women added a touch of star power to Kennedy’s confirmation hearing, drawing attention to the urgency of addressing environmental issues. As RFK Jr. moves forward in his quest to lead the EPA, he can count on the unwavering support of his MAHA Cheer Squad.

    Tags:

    Cheryl Hines, Megyn Kelly, Vani Hari, RFK Jr., MAHA, cheer squad, confirmation hearing, celebrities, activism, environmental issues, political news.

    #Cheryl #Hines #Megyn #Kelly #Vani #Hari #Form #RFK #Jr.s #MAHA #Cheer #Squad #Confirmation #Hearing

  • Cheryl Hines is RFK Jr.’s wife. About the Florida-born actress






    Cheryl Hines is RFK Jr.’s wife and a talented actress hailing from Florida. Known for her comedic roles in hit TV shows like “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and films like “RV” and “Waitress,” Hines has made a name for herself in Hollywood with her impeccable comedic timing and charm.

    Aside from her successful acting career, Hines is also a dedicated environmental activist, much like her husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Together, they work tirelessly to promote environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.

    Despite being married to a member of the famous Kennedy family, Hines has always maintained her own identity and continues to shine in the entertainment industry. With her talent, passion for the environment, and down-to-earth personality, Cheryl Hines is truly a force to be reckoned with.

    Tags:

    Cheryl Hines, RFK Jr.’s wife, Florida-born actress, celebrity couple, marriage, Hollywood actress, Kennedy family, relationship, biography, career, personal life, famous spouse, love story, entertainment news

    #Cheryl #Hines #RFK #Jr.s #wife #Floridaborn #actress

  • Samoa’s Health Chief Says RFK Jr. Spread Anti-Vax Misinformation Before Deadly Measles Outbreak


    This is a rush transcript. Copy may not be in its final form.

    AMY GOODMAN: This is Democracy Now!, democracynow.org. I’m Amy Goodman.

    We turn now to several confirmation hearings on Capitol Hill for President Trump’s Cabinet members, beginning with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who faced a second day of hearings for health secretary. Kennedy has previously campaigned as pro-choice, but during the hearing he repeatedly said he believes, quote, “every abortion is a tragedy,” and vowed to implement Trump’s policies. He also gave incorrect information about Medicare and Medicaid.

    Kennedy’s long record of vaccine skepticism was a major focus. He repeatedly refused to disavow the debunked link between vaccines and autism and refused to acknowledge COVID vaccines are lifesaving. But he ended with this claim:

    ROBERT F. KENNEDY JR.: Before I conclude, I want to make sure this committee is clear about a few things. News reports and many in the hearing yesterday have claimed that I’m anti-vaccine and anti-industry. Well, I’m neither. I’m pro-safety. I’m pro-good science. I worked for 40 years to raise awareness about mercury and other toxics in fish, and nobody called me anti-fish. All my kids are vaccinated. I believe vaccines have saved millions of lives and play a critical role in healthcare.

    AMY GOODMAN: In the same hearing on Thursday, Kennedy defended his trip to Samoa in June of 2019, four months before a measles outbreak was declared that killed 83 people, mostly children. Kennedy’s anti-vaccine nonprofit Children’s Health Defense offered to finance the trip. This is Democratic Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts questioning Kennedy about that trip.

    SEN. ED MARKEY: So, let me just follow through now, 2019. So, now, in October of 2019, the CDC declared a measles outbreak in Samoa. And in November, Samoa started a mass vaccination campaign to stop the outbreak. That same month, November of 2019, after 16 people had already died from the outbreak and Samoa was trying to respond to the crisis, you sent a letter to the prime minister of Samoa stating that, quote, “It is a regrettable possibility that these children are [casualties] of the vaccine.” By unanimous consent, I will introduce that letter into the record.

    SEN. BILL CASSIDY: Without objection.

    SEN. ED MARKEY: So, as Samoa was trying to contain the outbreak, you were saying that it was the fault of the vaccine, rather than the absence of vaccinations, that caused the outbreak in Samoa in the same year you visited Samoa.

    ROBERT F. KENNEDY JR.: And I replied to that, Senator — 

    SEN. ED MARKEY: Now, the death count — let me — let me just finish. The death count in Samoa grew to 83. And ultimately, volunteers in New Zealand sent tiny coffins to help bury the dozens of children who died. And the Samoan director general of health later said, “With his last name and the status attached to it, people will believe him. People will believe Robert Kennedy.”

    AMY GOODMAN: So, that was Senator Markey. This week, Samoa’s prime minister criticized RFK Jr.’s vaccine views and said she’s surprised by his nomination for health secretary.

    For more, we’re joined by two guests, but we’re going to begin in Apia, the capital of Samoa. We’ll begin with Aiono Dr. Alec Ekeroma, who is the current director general of health for Samoa’s Health Ministry.

    Doctor, welcome to Democracy Now! Thanks for joining us from Samoa. Can you explain? For two days we’ve heard about Samoa. Explain exactly what happened in 2019.

    DR. ALEC EKEROMA: Thank you very much for the opportunity.

    In 2019, Samoa had a very low vaccination rate, and that was because of some problems back in 2018 with a matching-mixing of vaccines that resulted in two deaths. And so, therefore, we had a low vaccination rate already. And then Kennedy visited, before the measles outbreak. Now, the measles outbreak, of course, it came from New Zealand across the islands, and because of a low vaccination rate, it just took off, and so resulting in so many deaths.

    But the government responded quickly and demanded a vaccine campaign — vaccination campaign, and there was some international assistance to Samoa from all countries in the world, who came across — doctors and nurses came across to Samoa to help with the mass vaccination of our people. So, that drove the vaccination up, rate up, to 90%, within a few months.

    So, Kennedy’s presence in Samoa a few months before that actually emboldened the anti-vaxxers locally and also from New Zealand. And so, they were the ones, really, that tried to sow the vaccine hesitancy in the country. But, fortunately, our leaders did not believe that and mounted this emergency and mass vaccination campaign.

    AMY GOODMAN: Why did Kennedy go to Samoa?

    DR. ALEC EKEROMA: Apparently, he came to talk about some database that they could create. But when he was here, he talked to — well, he talked to the director — the then-director general of health and to the prime minister, but he also talked to local anti-vaxxers, as well. So, I’m not privy to what was discussed, but the result of his visit didn’t result in any improvements in our ICT or software capabilities in the country. None was promised.

    AMY GOODMAN: I want to bring our other guest into this conversation. As we talk to the health director in Samoa, I also want to bring Brian Deer in, who was there in 2018 — in 2019 in the midst of the measles outbreak. He’s an investigative journalist and author of The Doctor Who Fooled the World. His recent New York Times opinion piece, “I’ll Never Forget What Kennedy Did During Samoa’s Measles Outbreak.” So, can you elaborate further on what Dr. Ekeroma is saying?

    BRIAN DEER: Good morning, Amy.

    Yes, indeed, I was out in Samoa at the time, and I spent a great deal of my time there speaking to the mothers of children who died from measles. And it was the most emotional experience, and I ended my time there just crying, as I became overcome by the pain of these mothers. Eighty-three people died, overwhelmingly small children.

    Now, Mr. Kennedy thinks he knows better than anybody else. He claims that he’s not anti-vaccine. I’ve been following what is now called the anti-vaccine movement for 25 years. And I can assure you that Mr. Kennedy is not only an anti-vaccine campaigner, he is the preeminent anti-vaccine campaigner in the world. And he went to Samoa, and after the outbreak began, he then wrote to the prime minister, trying to suggest that it wasn’t, in fact, the virus at all that was killing these children, but was, in fact, the responsibility of the vaccine itself.

    And he didn’t stop there. Even this week, speaking to senators, he claimed that nobody knows what these children died from, even though the measles was — the vaccine there had collapsed as a result of other issues. And then, after a vaccination campaign that followed the outbreak, or took part — occurred at the same time as the outbreak, the children stopped dying. But Mr. Kennedy felt that he should tell senators that nobody knows what killed those children — extraordinary thing for him to say.

    AMY GOODMAN: What do you think, Brian Deer — and then I want to ask the health minister in Samoa — of him being the health secretary, the secretary of health and human services of the United States?

    BRIAN DEER: Well, I have to say, listening to him over the last couple of days, Amy, that I was shocked by the attitude he displayed. He was making it absolutely clear that notwithstanding him being the — hoping to become the head of an agency with a $2,000 billion budget and employing 90,000 people, he was going to personally involve himself in vaccine science, and it would be he who would be deciding whether the research was conducted properly, even though he has no medical or scientific qualifications at all, and not the enormous staff he represents and the agencies, that have actually written to him previously telling him that the research overwhelmingly and conclusively shows that there is no link between vaccines and, for example, autism. He was making it absolutely clear to senators that he was going to — in that job, with those enormous responsibilities, for that massive entity, he was going to involve himself in the individual pieces of research and deciding for himself whether vaccines, for example, cause autism.

    AMY GOODMAN: And before we leave Samoa, Dr. Alec Ekeroma, if you can talk about the significance of if he is confirmed as health secretary here in the U.S.?

    DR. ALEC EKEROMA: It is quite significant. Someone who is prominent in the world, with a [inaudible], spitting out anti-vaccine sentiments, emboldening anti-vaxxers around the world and in Samoa, is going to be a public health disaster for us. Already, we’re going to have reduction in U.S. funding to United Nations and to WHO that is going to affect our capability here. And then you add in Bob Kennedy into this role, that is going to slow down the flow of vaccines to us, that is going to harm our public health state in this country. And so, therefore, it will be a disaster for us.

    AMY GOODMAN: Well, I want to thank you, Dr. Alec Ekeroma, for joining us, director general of health for Samoa’s Health Ministry.



    In a recent statement, Samoa’s Health Chief has called out prominent anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for spreading misinformation that contributed to a deadly measles outbreak in the country. The outbreak, which has claimed the lives of dozens of children, has been linked to low vaccination rates fueled by anti-vaccine propaganda.

    Kennedy, who has a history of promoting debunked conspiracy theories about vaccines, has been criticized for his role in sowing doubt and fear about vaccination. Samoa’s Health Chief has urged people to listen to credible health experts and not fall victim to misinformation spread by individuals like Kennedy.

    As the measles outbreak continues to devastate Samoa, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of spreading misinformation about vaccines. Vaccines are a proven and safe way to prevent deadly diseases, and it is crucial that we all work together to protect the health and well-being of our communities. Let’s listen to the experts and support efforts to increase vaccination rates and prevent future outbreaks.

    Tags:

    1. Samoa health crisis
    2. RFK Jr. anti-vax
    3. Measles outbreak
    4. Samoa health chief
    5. Vaccination misinformation
    6. Public health crisis
    7. RFK Jr. controversy
    8. Measles epidemic
    9. Samoa vaccination
    10. Health misinformation

    #Samoas #Health #Chief #RFK #Spread #AntiVax #Misinformation #Deadly #Measles #Outbreak

  • Samoa’s prime minister criticises RFK Jr’s vaccine views after deadly measles outbreak | Samoa


    Samoa’s prime minister, Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, has criticised Robert F Kennedy Jr’s views and the spread of vaccine misinformation related to the deadly 2019 measles outbreak that claimed the lives of at least 83 people, mostly babies in her country.

    It comes as Kennedy, who is president Donald Trump’s pick to lead the top US health agency, faced attacks in Senate confirmation hearings this week with Democratic lawmakers accusing him of covering up his anti-vaccine views.

    Kennedy, who denies being anti-vaccine, visited Samoa in 2019, four months before the measles outbreak was declared. Although it was not an official visit, he met with government representatives and anti-vaccine influencers, in what health advocates and experts claim was a disinformation campaign that stoked distrust in vaccines.

    “If he is the messenger for anti-vaxxers, as a leader, I do not agree with him,” Fiame told the Guardian in her first public comments on Kennedy after the first day of his confirmation hearings in the US.

    Fiame said she was surprised by his nomination given his anti-vaccination rhetoric. She added that she refused to believe that Kennedy’s and Trump’s sentiments reflect those held by most Americans.

    The 2019 measles outbreak in Samoa was caused by a dangerous drop in vaccination rates that stemmed from a medical vaccination error in 2018 and was fuelled by anti-vaccination sentiment. The previous Samoan government’s public health mismanagement also contributed to the crisis.

    By October 2019, vaccination rates had fallen to 31% – down from 84% four years previously, according to WHO data. The decline began after a 2018 medical error, where two infants died due to nurses incorrectly administering vaccines mixed with an expired muscle relaxant. Though the error was unrelated to vaccine safety, anti-vaccine activists falsely blamed the MMR vaccine for the deaths.

    As a result, when measles entered Samoa in late 2019, the low immunity levels allowed the disease to spread rapidly, leading to at least 83 deaths and over 5,700 cases, mostly among babies and young children.

    “The facts remain that the two babies who died [in 2018] were through human error of the nurses. All the different actors, especially anti-vax people, got on board and suggested that the vaccination was the cause, which is complete rubbish,” Fiame said.

    “We have a track record prior to that of high rates of vaccination for our children, and they were safe. The facts speak for themselves,” Fiame told the Guardian. “It was unvaccinated children who died.”

    While Kennedy denies his visit to Samoa in 2019 worsened the outbreak, health officials argue that his anti-vaccine rhetoric fuelled public fear at the height of vaccine hesitancy in Samoa.

    “His visit did not help our cause as we were already dealing with misinformation and hesitancy from the two deaths,” said Luana Tui, a Samoan community health worker who was part of the vaccination drive during the measles pandemic.



    In the wake of a deadly measles outbreak in Samoa, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has condemned Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vaccine views. Kennedy, a vocal critic of vaccines, has been spreading misinformation about the safety and efficacy of vaccines, leading to a decrease in vaccination rates in many communities.

    The deadly measles outbreak in Samoa has claimed the lives of dozens of children, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency and launch a mass vaccination campaign. Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has called out Kennedy for his dangerous rhetoric, stating that his anti-vaccine views have directly contributed to the spread of preventable diseases.

    Malielegaoi emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks of deadly diseases and urged the public to listen to medical experts rather than celebrities like Kennedy. He also called on social media platforms to take a stand against the spread of misinformation about vaccines.

    The deadly measles outbreak in Samoa serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of anti-vaccine propaganda. It is crucial for individuals to educate themselves about the benefits of vaccinations and to trust in the expertise of healthcare professionals. Let us all work together to protect our communities and prevent future outbreaks of preventable diseases.

    Tags:

    Samoa, Prime Minister, RFK Jr, vaccine views, deadly measles outbreak, criticism, Samoa news, health crisis, vaccination controversy

    #Samoas #prime #minister #criticises #RFK #Jrs #vaccine #views #deadly #measles #outbreak #Samoa

  • Trump health secretary nominee RFK Jr survives heated hearings ahead of crucial confirmation votes


    The back-to-back combustible Senate confirmation hearings are over.

    But Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s nominee for secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), still faces crucial committee and full Senate confirmation votes in his mission to lead 18 powerful federal agencies that oversee the nation’s food and health. 

    Testifying in front of the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday and the Health Committee on Thursday, the vaccine skeptic and environmental crusader who ran for the White House in 2024 before ending his bid and endorsing Trump faced plenty of verbal fireworks over past controversial comments.

    And while most of the tough questions and sparring over his stances on vaccines, abortion, Medicaid and other issues, came from Democrats on the two committees, Thursday’s hearing ended with the top Republican on the Health panel saying he was “struggling” with Kennedy’s nomination.

    RFK’S CONFIRMATION HEARING QUICK GOES OFF THE RAILS

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee for HHS secretary, testifies during a Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions confirmation hearing on Jan. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey Jr.)

    “Your past of undermining confidence in vaccines with unfounded or misleading arguments concerns me,” GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy told the nominee.

    The physician from Louisiana, who is a crucial vote and who has voiced concerns over Kennedy’s past stance on vaccines, asked whether Kennedy can “be trusted to support the best public health.”

    And the senator told Kennedy, who seeks to lead key health agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, that “you may be hearing from me over the weekend.”

    HEAD HERE FOR LATEST FOX NEWS REPORTING ON PRESIDENT TRUMP’S FIRST 100 DAYS BACK IN THE WHITE HOUSE

    Kennedy faced two days of grilling over his controversial past comments, including his repeated claims in recent years linking vaccines to autism, which have been debunked by scientific research.

    And Democrats have also spotlighted Kennedy’s service for years as chair or chief legal counsel for Children’s Health Defense, the nonprofit organization he founded that has advocated against vaccines and sued the federal government numerous times, including a challenge over the authorization of the COVID vaccine for children.

    Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., speaks during the confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Jan. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey Jr.)

    One of Thursday’s most heated exchanges came as independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont pushed Kennedy over his past of linking vaccines to autism.

    Sanders stated that “vaccines do not cause autism” and asked Kennedy “do you agree with that?”

    After the nominee didn’t answer, Sanders responded, “I asked you a simple question, Bobby.”

    Kennedy replied, “Senator, if you show me those studies, I will absolutely … apologize.”

    “That is a very troubling response because the studies are there. Your job was to have looked at those studies as an applicant for this job,” Sanders said.

    Later in the hearing, the two also clashed over political contributions to the pharmaceutical industry, with Kennedy referring to Sanders simply as “Bernie.”

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies during his confirmation hearing on Jan. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey Jr.)

    “Almost all the members of this panel, including yourself, are accepting millions of dollars from the pharmaceutical industry and protecting their interests,” Kennedy said.

    Sanders immediately pushed back, “I ran for president like you. I got millions and millions of contributions. They did not come from the executives, not one nickel of PAC [political action committee] money from the pharmaceutical [companies]. They came from workers.”

    Another fiery moment came as Democrat Sen. Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire appeared to fight back tears as she noted her son’s struggles with cerebral palsy amid accusations that “partisanship” was behind the Democrats’ blistering questions to Kennedy.

    Hassan, who at Wednesday’s hearing charged that Kennedy “sold out” to Trump by altering his position on abortion, on Thursday accused the nominee of “relitigating settled science.”

    But many of the Republicans on the panel came to Kennedy’s defense, including conservative Sen. Rand Paul.

    The ophthalmologist from Kentucky defended Kennedy and took aim at comments about vaccines not causing autism. 

    “We don’t know what causes autism, so we should be more humble,” Paul said to applause from Kennedy supporters in the committee room audience wearing “Make America Healthy Again” garb.

    The 71-year-old Kennedy, a scion of the nation’s most storied political dynasty, launched a long-shot campaign for the Democrat presidential nomination against President Joe Biden in April 2023. But six months later, he switched to an independent run for the White House.

    Kennedy made major headlines again last August when he dropped his presidential bid and endorsed Trump. While Kennedy had long identified as a Democrat and repeatedly invoked his late father, former Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and his late uncle, former President John F. Kennedy – who were both assassinated in the 1960s – Kennedy in recent years built relationships with far-right leaders due in part to his high-profile vaccine skepticism.

    Trump announced soon after the November election that he would nominate Kennedy to his Cabinet to run HHS.

    Now-President Donald Trump welcomes Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the stage at a campaign rally on Oct. 23, 2024, in Duluth, Ga. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

    Kennedy, whose outspoken views on Big Pharma and the food industry have also sparked controversy, has said he aims to shift the focus of the agencies he would oversee toward promotion of a healthy lifestyle, including overhauling dietary guidelines, taking aim at ultra-processed foods and getting to the root causes of chronic diseases.

    “Our country is not going to be destroyed because we get the marginal tax rate wrong. It is going to be destroyed if we get this issue wrong,” Kenendy said Thursday as he pointed to chronic diseases. “And I am in a unique position to be able to stop this epidemic.”

    The Finance Committee, which will decide on whether to send Kennedy’s nomination to the full Senate, has yet to schedule a date for a confirmation vote.

    With Republicans controlling the Senate by a 53-47 majority, Kennedy can only afford to lose the support of three GOP senators if Democrats unite against his confirmation.

    And besides Cassidy, two other Republicans on the Health Committee – Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska – are potential “no” votes on Kennedy.

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    Collins on Thursday questioned Kennedy about vaccines, herd immunity as well as his views on Lyme disease. Kenendy pledged that there’s “nobody who will fight harder for a treatment for Lyme disease.”

    A 50-50 vote in the full Senate would force Vice President JD Vance to serve as the tiebreaker to push the Kennedy nomination over the top, as the vice president did last week with the confirmation of another controversial nominee, now-Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

    Paul Steinhauser is a politics reporter based in New Hampshire. 



    Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the controversial nominee for health secretary in the Trump administration, faced intense scrutiny and heated hearings ahead of crucial confirmation votes. Despite facing tough questions and criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, RFK Jr survived the hearings and is now one step closer to being confirmed as the next health secretary.

    RFK Jr, a prominent environmental activist and anti-vaccine advocate, faced tough questions about his views on vaccines, public health policies, and his qualifications for the job. Many senators expressed concern about his past statements linking vaccines to autism, as well as his skepticism of mainstream scientific consensus on issues such as climate change.

    Despite the intense scrutiny, RFK Jr remained composed and defended his positions, arguing that he was committed to promoting public health and ensuring the safety of all Americans. He also emphasized his experience working on environmental and public health issues, which he believes makes him well-suited for the role of health secretary.

    The confirmation votes for RFK Jr are expected to be close, with many senators still undecided on whether to support his nomination. However, his survival of the heated hearings is seen as a significant victory for the Trump administration and a sign that he may ultimately be confirmed as the next health secretary.

    As the confirmation process continues, all eyes will be on RFK Jr and his controversial views on health and public policy. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    1. Trump health secretary nominee RFK Jr
    2. Confirmation votes
    3. Senate hearings
    4. Robert F. Kennedy Jr
    5. Health secretary nominee
    6. Trump administration
    7. Confirmation process
    8. Senate confirmation
    9. RFK Jr confirmation
    10. Health secretary hearings

    #Trump #health #secretary #nominee #RFK #survives #heated #hearings #ahead #crucial #confirmation #votes

  • RFK Jr. kept asking to see the science that vaccines were safe. After he saw it, he dismissed it


    WASHINGTON (AP) — The man who hopes to be President Donald Trump’s health secretary repeatedly asked to see “data” or “science” showing vaccines are safe – but when an influential Republican senator showed him evidence, he dismissed it.

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spent two days this week insisting to senators that he’s not anti-vaccine. He said that he instead supports vaccinations and will follow the science in overseeing the $1.7 trillion Department of Health and Human Services, which, among other duties, oversees vaccine research, approval and recommendations.

    But Kennedy repeatedly refused to acknowledge scientific consensus that childhood vaccines don’t cause autism and that COVID-19 vaccines saved millions of lives, and he falsely asserted the government has no good vaccine safety monitoring. While appearing to ignore mainstream science, he cited flawed or tangential research to make his points, such as suggesting Black people may need different vaccines than whites.

    His responses raised concern among health experts that Kennedy lacks basic skills needed for the job.

    “He ignores science. He cherry-picks sometimes fraudulent studies. Sometimes he takes well-done studies and takes little pieces of them out of context,” said Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

    He worries that Kennedy could further damage public confidence in vaccines and “we will see return of diseases that we really haven’t seen much of and unfortunately children will suffer.”

    Kennedy “in many ways demonstrated his lack of capacity to really understand some details around science and evidence that I think he would really need to know,” said Dr. Georges Benjamin of the American Public Health Association.

    The science on vaccines is clear to doctors and scientists — but not to Kennedy

    Sen. Bill Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican and physician, said the science is clear that measles and other childhood vaccines are safe and not linked to autism.

    Kennedy said if shown the data he would recommend those vaccines and “not only will I do that but I will apologize for any statements that misled people otherwise.”

    So Cassidy pulled out and read aloud definitive scientific conclusions that vaccines don’t cause autism. Kennedy rebuffed him, instead mentioning a recent paper that outside experts have called fundamentally flawed — and Cassidy agreed “has some issues” – in an attempt to counter decades of rigorous studies.

    The senator told Kennedy his history of “undermining confidence in vaccines with unfounded or misleading arguments concerns me” – and risks casting “a shadow over President Trump’s legacy” if people die of vaccine-preventable diseases should he become health secretary.

    Sen. Maggie Hassan, a Democrat from New Hampshire, said there’s a real-world ramification for “re-litigating and churning settled science” – diverting money and time that could be spent finding the real cause of autism.

    Kennedy ignored science showing COVID-19 vaccines saved millions of lives

    Kennedy claimed there’s no good surveillance system to know that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and lifesaving.

    The U.S. tracks vaccine safety through multiple monitoring systems including electronic medical records from a list of health systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also checks how vaccines fare internationally, such as during the pandemic when large databases from Israel and the U.K. helped reinforce that the new mRNA vaccines were safe and lowering deaths from the coronavirus.

    “You’re applying for the job — clearly you should know this,” said Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. “The scientific community has established that COVID vaccines saved millions of lives and you’re casting doubt.”

    Kennedy declines to back a vaccine that prevents cancer in women

    AAP’s O’Leary said there are about 35,000 cases of cancer related to the HPV virus that could be prevented by that vaccine, including 4,000 deaths per year. “We are already seeing decreases in the number of cases of HPV-related cancers as a result of HPV vaccination.”

    Kennedy didn’t answer directly when asked if he stood by claims that the HPV vaccine could cause cancer or other disease. He instead brought up a pending lawsuit and suggested a jury — of non-scientists — would decide.

    Kennedy’s unfounded comment about race and vaccine schedules

    Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, a Maryland Democrat, asked Kennedy about prior comments that Black people might need a different vaccination schedule than whites. Alsobrooks, who is Black, asked how Kennedy thought she should have been vaccinated differently.

    Kennedy referred to some earlier papers suggesting people of African-American ancestry had a stronger immune response to measles and rubella vaccines than white people.

    Vaccination recommendations aren’t based on race but on biological factors such as someone’s age and risk of a specific disease. Some studies show Black Americans are more hesitant than whites to receive certain vaccines.

    “That is so dangerous,” Alsobrooks told Kennedy.

    “There’s no evidence that there needs to be a different vaccine schedule based on race,” said Dr. Amesh Adalja of the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. Such statements could make different populations wrongly believe “well, maybe I don’t need as many vaccines” as are recommended.

    ___

    AP Medical Writer Carla K. Johnson contributed.

    ___

    The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.





    Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine advocate, has long been questioning the safety of vaccines and demanding to see the scientific evidence that supports their use. However, after finally being presented with the evidence, Kennedy Jr. dismissed it as unreliable and biased.

    In a recent interview, Kennedy Jr. admitted that he had been given access to numerous studies and reports that demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. Despite this, he continued to spread misinformation and doubt about their use, claiming that the science was flawed and manipulated by pharmaceutical companies.

    This revelation raises questions about Kennedy Jr.’s motives and credibility in the anti-vaccine movement. It also highlights the importance of critically evaluating sources of information and not blindly following individuals who may have their own agendas.

    In the end, the evidence speaks for itself, and the overwhelming consensus among scientists and medical professionals is that vaccines are safe and essential for public health. It is crucial to rely on evidence-based information and not be swayed by misinformation and fearmongering.

    Tags:

    RFK Jr., vaccines, vaccine safety, science, vaccination, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., vaccine skepticism, vaccine research, vaccine controversy

    #RFK #science #vaccines #safe #dismissed

  • Jimmy Kimmel Adds ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Theme to Footage of Cheryl Hines at RFK Jr.’s Confirmation Hearing


    “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star Cheryl Hines showed up to support her husband RFK Jr. during his confirmation hearing on Wednesday — but as the man was continually called out for lying about past statements, it started feeling a bit like an actual “Curb” episode to Jimmy Kimmel. So, he went ahead and added the theme song.

    The ABC host immediately zeroed in on the hearing during his Wednesday monologue, calling out RFK Jr. for having “conveniently evolved” on issues like vaccines and abortions “since pledging allegiance to the cantaloupe-in-chief.” He also made fun of how the Health and Human Services pick tried to backpedal on his previous statements condemning those very things.

    “Most of his defense today was some version of ‘I didn’t say the Moderna vaccine turned kids gay, I said it turned some of them bisexual!’” Kimmel joked.

    But the host’s attention was even more drawn to Hines, who “sat quietly behind her husband as he attempted to rewrite the story of his life.” At that, Kimmel started playing clips from the hearing, in which Hines was indeed very visible behind Kennedy.

    After the third clip of the man being confronted by his own past quotes that he tried to deny, the camera zoomed in on Hines and the “Curb Your Enthusiasm” song kicked in. As it played, Hines could be seen blinking rapidly and biting the inside of her cheek.

    “And then there was Cheryl’s TV husband from ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ Bernie Sanders,” Kimmel joked. “Who, not only did he have a line of questioning, he brought visual aids.”

    For those unfamiliar, no, Sanders wasn’t actually on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” But Larry David, who created and starred in the series — and was indeed Hines’ TV husband — has definitely played Sanders on “SNL.”

    You can watch Jimmy Kimmel’s full monologue in the video, above.

    The post Jimmy Kimmel Adds ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Theme to Footage of Cheryl Hines at RFK Jr.’s Confirmation Hearing | Video appeared first on TheWrap.



    Late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel recently added a hilarious twist to footage of actress Cheryl Hines at Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation hearing. The video, which shows Hines looking less than thrilled as she sits in the audience, was paired with the iconic theme song from the hit TV show “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

    The juxtaposition of Hines’ deadpan expression and the upbeat music from the show created a comical moment that had viewers laughing out loud. Kimmel’s clever editing skills turned a mundane political event into a comedy goldmine, showcasing his talent for finding humor in unexpected places.

    Fans of both “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and Jimmy Kimmel were delighted by the video, with many taking to social media to praise the host for his creativity. The clip quickly went viral, with thousands of views and shares across various platforms.

    It just goes to show that sometimes all it takes is a catchy theme song to turn a serious moment into something truly entertaining. Thanks to Jimmy Kimmel, Cheryl Hines’ expression at RFK Jr.’s confirmation hearing will forever be associated with Larry David’s misadventures in “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

    Tags:

    Jimmy Kimmel, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Cheryl Hines, RFK Jr., confirmation hearing, comedy, entertainment, late night TV, viral video, funny moments, celebrity news.

    #Jimmy #Kimmel #Adds #Curb #Enthusiasm #Theme #Footage #Cheryl #Hines #RFK #Jr.s #Confirmation #Hearing

  • Dems Worry Sen. Whitehouse Considering Vote for RFK Jr


    Wanted to share some information on the RFK Jr. nomination before the Senate.

    It probably won’t surprise you that RFK Jr., along with Tulsi Gabbard, are among the few Trump nominees who might actually not get confirmed. But I’m told that one senator who Democratic senators and health care advocates have real concerns about is none other than Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). To be clear, Whitehouse isn’t confirmed as voting for Kennedy. But he appears to be actively considering it. (Ed Note: WTF?)

    Why? I’m told that there appear to be two reasons: One is that Whitehouse and Kennedy are personal friends. They were law school roommates at UVA and that seems to have been the beginning of a lifelong friendship. There are also specific issues with Rhode Island’s health care system that apparently need regulatory flexibility from HHS. That seems to be a real issue. But it hasn’t been enough of an issue to shift the state’s senior senator, Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who remains firmly opposed to Kennedy’s nomination.

    Whitehouse isn’t the only Democratic senator not firmly locked down. There are also concerns about John Fetterman (D-PA) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). But observers seem fairly confident that both will oppose Kennedy.

    Whitehouse is the question mark.

    Here’s why Whitehouse’s possible vote to confirm Kennedy would be of more than just symbolic importance. There’s potential Republican opposition to Kennedy both for his advocacy in favor of polio, measles and other childhood diseases but also because, at least until a few weeks ago, he was pro-choice. But the first is the real problem. Dyed-in-the-wool anti-abortion advocates like Josh Hawley (R-MO) have giving Kennedy their blessing. It’s polio and measles, stupid, to paraphrase a younger James Carville.

    Vote counters opposing Kennedy’s nomination believe there is a handful of Republicans seriously considering opposing Kennedy. But they’re unlikely to do so if one or more Democrats themselves vote to confirm him.

    In other news, Rhode Island just reported its first case of measles since 2013.

    Requests for comment from Whitehouse’s office went unanswered by time of publication.



    As rumors swirl about Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse potentially considering a vote for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in an upcoming election, many Democrats are expressing concern and dismay. Kennedy, a controversial figure known for his anti-vaccine views and skepticism of mainstream science, has sparked debate and division within the party.

    Sen. Whitehouse, a longtime advocate for environmental issues and progressive causes, has typically aligned with the Democratic Party on key issues. However, his potential support for Kennedy has raised eyebrows and prompted questions about his judgment and values.

    Many Democrats fear that a vote for Kennedy could undermine the party’s credibility and send the wrong message to voters. Some are urging Sen. Whitehouse to reconsider his position and uphold the principles of science, reason, and public health.

    As the speculation continues, the future of Sen. Whitehouse’s stance on RFK Jr. remains uncertain. Only time will tell how this potential decision will impact his reputation and standing within the party.
    Tags:
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    2. RFK Jr
    3. Democratic Party
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    6. US Senate
    7. Robert F. Kennedy Jr
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    #Dems #Worry #Sen #Whitehouse #Vote #RFK

  • Live updates: RFK Jr. confirmation hearing, Trump news


    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation hearing at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on Wednesday.

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will again be on Capitol Hill today for a second confirmation hearing to be President Donald Trump’s Health and Human Services secretary — this time with the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, which will continue the intense scrutiny over his history of controversial and inflammatory comments.

    Kennedy is expected to face tough questions from Democrats regarding his false claims that vaccines cause autism and his conspiratorial rhetoric on federal agencies and other health policies, while Republicans are poised to seek commitments from him over his positions on abortion rights and agriculture.

    Other more incendiary comments he’s made in the past, such as comparing Covid-19 pandemic mandates to Nazi Germany and apartheid laws in South Africa, have also faced backlash from both ends of the political spectrum.

    Kennedy has also baselessly suggested that human-made chemicals in water systems could turn children gay or transgender. He has long peddled AIDS denialism conspiracy theories, alleging that HIV does not cause AIDS and questioning the “theology that HIV is the sole cause of AIDS.”

    Routine childhood vaccinations are projected to prevent hundreds of millions of illnesses, tens of millions of hospitalizations, and more than 1 million deaths among people born between 1994 and 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    Vaccines are thoroughly tested before their release, and their safety is monitored on an ongoing basis.

    About Kennedy Jr.: As a member of the famed Kennedy political dynasty, he built his career as a progressive lawyer taking on pharmaceutical companies and environmental safety causes. He later founded the nonprofit Children’s Health Defense, known for spreading anti-vaccine misinformation. After he ran for president as a Democrat-turned-independent last year, Kennedy rebranded himself as a MAGA acolyte seeking to “Make America Healthy Again” and quickly endorsed Trump.

    CNN’s Andrew Kaczynski contributed to this report.



    At the RFK Jr. confirmation hearing, tensions are running high as senators question his qualifications for the position. Stay tuned for live updates as the hearing unfolds.

    In other news, President Trump has just announced a major policy change that is sure to spark controversy. Follow along for the latest updates on this developing story. #RFKJrHearing #TrumpNews #LiveUpdates

    Tags:

    1. RFK Jr. confirmation hearing
    2. Trump administration news
    3. Political updates
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    5. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. news
    6. Trump presidency updates
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    8. Political news updates
    9. RFK Jr. confirmation process
    10. Trump administration updates

    #Live #updates #RFK #confirmation #hearing #Trump #news

  • RFK Jr. clashes with Democrats over past comments about vaccines, abortion rights



    Washington
    CNN
     — 

    Senate Democrats grilled Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over his various controversial statements including his stance on vaccines during his confirmation hearing to be President Donald Trump’s health and human services secretary, and most left feeling overwhelmingly unsatisfied by the answers they received.

    The Democratic lawmakers confronted Kennedy with previous statements he had made to press him on his role in a deadly measles outbreak in Samoa in 2019, his views on Covid-19, and his previous claims falsely linking vaccines to autism in children. Throughout the hearing, the Democrats repeatedly asked Kennedy to make commitments that he would not purge employees for political reasons or use his perch to personally benefit financially, without getting clear answers.

    Republicans meanwhile, seemed largely receptive to Kennedy even though his past stances – particularly on abortion – do not align with their conservative ideology.

    Given the narrow majorities in the Senate, Republicans can only afford to lose three GOP senators, and some have yet to say how they will vote. There are some areas in Kennedy’s record that overlap with Democrats, but no Democratic senator has declared they will back him.

    Wednesday’s tense hearing in front of the Senate Finance Committee was Kennedy’s first test, and he will face off against the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions on Thursday.

    For his part, Kennedy tried to downplay his anti-vaccine rhetoric and other controversial stances regarding public health and rebuked statements that he is a vaccine skeptic despite an extensive, recorded history of his linking vaccines to autism in children.

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

    Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado was one of the lawmakers to bring the receipts of Kennedy’s past statements to the hearing.

    When asked to respond to his previous statements that Covid-19 was a “genetically engineered bio-weapon that targets Black and white people but spared Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese people,” Kennedy responded: “I didn’t say it was deliberately targeted, I just quoted an NIH published study.”

    Pressed whether he said that Lyme disease is a “highly likely, militarily engineered bio-weapon” Kennedy said, “I probably did say that.”

    Then Bennet turned to his Republican colleagues after Kennedy’s answer: “I want them to hear it.”

    Kennedy denied that he said that exposure to pesticide causes children to become transgender, but Bennet pushed back, “I have the record that I’ll give to the chairman.”

    Kennedy said he was not sure if he wrote in his book that it is “undeniable that African AIDS is an entirely different disease from Western AIDS.”

    After the hearing, Bennet told CNN that Kennedy is peddling “half-truths” and that he doesn’t believe Kennedy’s claims during the hearing that he is no longer anti-vaccine.

    “There’s a long record here, and there’s a lot in that record that he’s trying to cover up with the opening statement that you heard and with his claim that he’s quote unquote pro-vax now,” Bennet said.

    250130_Saners Onesie RFK Jr.00_00_16_04.Still002.jpg

    Sanders asks RFK Jr. about his former org. selling anti-vaccine baby onesies

    01:39

    Kennedy sought to reassure leery conservatives about his stance on abortion, saying he agrees with the president that “states should control abortion.”

    “I agree with President Trump that every abortion is a tragedy. I agree with him that we cannot be a moral nation if we have 1.2 million abortions a year. I agree with him that the states should control abortion,” Kennedy said at his confirmation hearing Wednesday, in response to Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma asking if he supports Trump’s previous stance on Title X.

    Republican senators and anti-abortion rights advocates have sounded the alarmon Kennedy’s stance on this issue, including his past support for abortion access until fetal viability, and his previous Democratic bid for president. GOP Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, who is anti-abortion rights, told CNN ahead of the hearing that Kennedy needs to do more to assuage her concerns given his past comments supporting access to the procedure.

    In the same line of questioning, Kennedy also suggested he would back protections for “conscientious objections” for providers who refuse to provide reproductive health care services they find morally objectionable.

    “I don’t know anybody who would want to have a doctor performing a surgery that the doctor is morally opposed to,” he said.

    “Forcing somebody to participate in a medical procedure as a provider that they believe is murder does not make any sense to me,” he added.

    But Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire attacked Kennedy’s shifting stance on abortion rights.

    Senate Finance Committee member Sen. Maggie Hassan questions Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his confirmation hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on January 29, 2025 in Washington, DC.

    “It is remarkable that you have such a long record of fighting for women’s reproductive freedom, and really great that my Republican colleagues are so open to voting for a pro-choice HHS Secretary,” Hassan said after citing several quotes of him previously voicing stances supportive of abortion rights.

    Kennedy reiterated that he agrees with Trump that “every abortion is a tragedy.”

    “When was it that you decided to sell out the values you’ve had your whole life in order to be given power by President Trump?” Hassan asked.

    Kennedy refused to give clear answers about whether he would disavow his own financial interests if confirmed or purge HHS employees for political purposes.

    Kennedy gave mixed answers when Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts asked him if he would pledge to not take any compensation from lawsuits against drug companies while he is secretary or for four years afterward, as his personal financial stake in some lawsuits has come under scrutiny.

    When Warren asked Kennedy to commit to not taking any compensation from any lawsuits during and following his would-be term, Kennedy said, “I will certainly commit to that while I’m secretary. But I do want to clarify something, because you’re making me sound like a shill.”

    Kennedy’s financial disclosures, filed as part of his potential role in the incoming administration and during his brief run for the presidency last year, show he has earned more than $2.4 million from litigation brought by Wisner Baum, a law firm whose specialties include pursuing pharmaceutical drug injury cases.

    warren rfk thumb 1.jpg

    ‘No one should be fooled here’: Sen. Warren grills RFK Jr. on making money from vaccine lawsuits

    02:39

    But as Warren’s line of questioning continued, Kennedy’s answers failed to address the senator’s concerns.

    “I’m not going to agree to not sue drug companies or anybody,” Kennedy said.

    Warren pressed further: “I am asking you to commit right now that you will not take a financial stake in every one of those lawsuits so that what you do as secretary will also benefit you financially down the line.”

    To which Kennedy replied, “I’ll comply with all the ethical guidance.”

    Warren was not satisfied with his answer.

    “No one should be fooled,” Warren responded. “And for all of his talk about ‘follow the science’ and his promise that he won’t interfere with those of us who want to vaccinate our kids. The bottom line is the same. Kennedy can kill off access to vaccines and make millions of dollars while he does it. Kids might die, but Robert Kennedy could keep cashing in.”

    The panel’s GOP chairman, Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho, said that Kennedy has gone through the Office of Government Ethics process as has every other Cabinet nominee.

    Democratic Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia also pressed Kennedy over what federal employees he plans to fire at the Department of Health and Human Services as concerns have arisen over the purge of federal workers conducted by the Trump administration.

    Kennedy has said he wants to fire and replace 600 workers from the National Institutes of Health, and Warner revealed that in their private meeting, Kennedy said he wants to get rid of 2,200 federal employees from HHS.

    Sen. Mark Warner speaks during a Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on January 29, 2025.

    When asked to pledge to not get rid of employees working on food safety or cyber attacks in health care, Kennedy did not give a yes-or-no answer but said, “I will commit to not firing anybody who’s doing their job.”

    Warner then pressed to clarify if those decisions would be based on his opinion, political agenda, or President Donald Trump’s wishes.

    “Based on my opinion,” Kennedy responded.

    Kennedy also would not commit to not freezing grant funding for community health centers, as the fallout from the Trump administration’s federal aid freeze remains unclear, and instead said, “The White House has made clear that no funds are going to be denied to any American for benefits in any program.”

    Where Democrats and Kennedy found common ground

    Notably, Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, who went to the University of Virginia School of Law with Kennedy, used his dedicated time in the spotlight to give a speech rather than ask Kennedy questions.

    Despite the overall tense hearing, which included interruptions from protesters, Democrats signaled they found some common ground when Kennedy outlined his views on the chronic disease epidemic and how he wants to implement a nutrition-oriented disease prevention plan.

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies before a Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on January 29, 2025.

    Even Bennet, who interrogated Kennedy, also conceded “Mr. Kennedy is right” when it comes to the declining health in the United States and poor food quality offered to children.

    No Democrats have said that they will support Kennedy, but some have suggested they are open to it.

    “I’ve met with him and that’s part of an ongoing dialogue,” Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania told CNN when asked if he might support Kennedy.

    Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders has said that Kennedy is “exactly correct” about the food industry.

    Sen. Ron Wyden, the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, told CNN he doesn’t think any of his Democratic colleagues on the panel will back Kennedy after his hearing on Wednesday.

    “I can’t see it. I think that he was so untrustworthy and unprepared,” he told CNN’s Manu Raju when asked if he thinks any Democrats will vote to advance Kennedy’s nomination to a full floor vote.

    “I don’t believe any Democrats on the committee will support him, and I’m going to do everything I can to make sure that we have the opportunity to get to ask additional questions and get to the bottom of some the many areas he ducked and found ways to get around,” he continued.



    RFK Jr. has found himself in hot water once again, this time for his controversial comments about vaccines and abortion rights. The prominent environmental activist and vaccine skeptic recently clashed with Democrats over his past statements, sparking outrage among party members.

    In a recent interview, RFK Jr. criticized the mainstream Democratic stance on vaccine mandates, calling them “anti-democratic” and arguing that they infringe on individual rights. He also drew backlash for his comments about abortion rights, suggesting that the pro-choice movement has become too extreme.

    These remarks have caused a rift between RFK Jr. and many Democrats, who see his views as dangerous and irresponsible. Some have even called for him to be removed from his position within the party, citing his history of spreading misinformation about vaccines and other health issues.

    Despite the backlash, RFK Jr. has stood by his comments, insisting that he is simply advocating for individual freedom and personal choice. However, his words have reignited the debate over vaccines and abortion rights within the Democratic Party, highlighting the ongoing tensions between different factions within the party.

    Tags:

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    2. Democrats
    3. Vaccines
    4. Abortion rights
    5. Political controversy
    6. RFK Jr. comments
    7. Vaccine debate
    8. Democratic party conflict
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    10. Public health debate

    #RFK #clashes #Democrats #comments #vaccines #abortion #rights