HHS Secretary RFK Jr. Testifies on 26% Budget Cuts, Workforce Reductions

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Appropriations Committee and later the Senate HELP Committee regarding the Trump administration's proposed fiscal 2026 budget for HHS. Kennedy defended significant workforce reductions and a 26% cut to the department's discretionary budget, emphasizing priorities such as addressing chronic disease, mental health, addiction, nutrition, food safety, and cybersecurity. He also highlighted efforts to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion funding while aiming to deliver more effective services for Medicare and Medicaid recipients. Kennedy’s tenure has seen large layoffs, consolidation of agencies, and cancellation of billions in federal grants, alongside launching initiatives to research autism causes. Democrats criticized the budget cuts for their potential negative impact on public health programs. The hearings marked Kennedy’s first congressional testimonies since his confirmation, where he faced scrutiny over his controversial views and management decisions.