His nomination by President Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services was one of the most controversial. He even got two full days of confirmation hearings (one before the Senate Finance Committee, one before the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee).
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After very contentious proceedings, the fate of Kennedy’s nomination was in question — particularly as there was some question as to whether Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), who is himself a physician, would be on board with his support.
After several minutes of speeches from senators Tuesday morning, including comments from Senate Finance Chair Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), the vote was held.
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Cassidy voted aye, as did the other Republicans on the committee, and Kennedy was passed out of the Senate Finance Committee 14-13.
GOP LA Sen Cassidy on RFK Jr for HHS: I’ve had very intense conversations with Bobby and the White House over the weekend and even this morning. I want to thank VP JD specifically for his honest counsel. With the serious commitments I’ve received from the administration and the…
— Chad Pergram (@ChadPergram) February 4, 2025
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GOP LA Sen Cassidy on RFK Jr for HHS: I’ve had very intense conversations with Bobby and the White House over the weekend and even this morning. I want to thank VP JD specifically for his honest counsel. With the serious commitments I’ve received from the administration and the opportunity to make progress on the issues we agree on like healthy foods and a pro-American agenda, I will vote yes.
Kennedy’s nomination will now proceed to the Senate floor. As with the other nominees, he can only afford to lose three Republican votes, but as it stands at present, it appears fairly likely he will be confirmed.
