On January 27th, Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has effectively explained some controversial viewpoints, which bodes well for his confirmation by the Senate.
Thune told CNN on Monday that Kennedy has provided assurances to Republican senators who have raised concerns about his views on issues such as vaccines.
Kennedy will face two confirmation hearings this week, during which his ability to explain his positions will be put to the test.
Thune said, “He will have the opportunity to face the world this week. I think, at least from the recordings and transcripts I have from these private meetings, he has given a lot of assurances. That is the impression I got from meeting with him.”
The Senate Health Committee’s first confirmation hearing for Kennedy is scheduled for Thursday morning at 9 a.m. The committee must first vote to approve Kennedy’s nomination before advancing the confirmation process for a full Senate vote.
Kennedy’s nomination has sparked controversy due to his stance on issues such as vaccines, fluoridation of drinking water, and raw milk, even within the Republican party.
So far, Senate Republicans have largely supported Trump’s cabinet nominations. When asked if Kennedy could secure enough confirmation votes in the Senate, where Republicans hold a slim 53-47 majority, Thune said he would wait until after the hearings to make a judgment.