Senate Advances RFK Jr. for HHS Secretary

The Senate has advanced Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination for Health and Human Services Secretary, clearing a significant procedural hurdle with a 53-47 vote. Despite concerns regarding his history of vaccine skepticism, Kennedy has gained support from some Republican senators, including Susan Collins and Bill Cassidy, who were previously on the fence. Kennedy assured lawmakers during his confirmation hearing of his commitment to vaccine efficacy, stating, 'I support the measles vaccine, I support the polio vaccine.' Democrats remain opposed to his nomination, criticizing his past associations with the anti-vaccine movement. Kennedy's confirmation is expected to take place soon, as he has shifted his platform to align more closely with the Trump administration's health policies. The vote underscores ongoing tensions surrounding public health trust amidst rising vaccine hesitancy in the U.S.