RFK Jr. Chosen to Head Health and Human Services

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., a vaccine skeptic and former presidential candidate, has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump to oversee the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The announcement was made on Thursday, confirming expectations following Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump after withdrawing from his third-party candidacy this summer.

Trump emphasized that Kennedy’s leadership would significantly contribute to public safety regarding chemicals, pollutants, and pharmaceuticals. “For too long, Americans have been crushed by the industrial food complex and drug companies,” Trump stated on X, formerly Twitter. He reiterated that Kennedy would bring transparency and a focus on scientific research to the department, aiming to tackle chronic diseases.

However, Kennedy’s nomination has sparked controversy. He is known for his anti-vaccine advocacy and has questioned the safety of various public health measures, including fluoride in drinking water. His past statements advocating for a reevaluation of potentially hazardous products, such as raw milk, may also be scrutinized during the Senate confirmation hearings.

This nomination comes amid a series of appointments that have drawn attention in Trump’s second administration. Other recent selections include Florida Representative Matt Gaetz for Attorney General and former Democratic Representative Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence.

While many of these appointees will require Senate confirmation, Trump has hinted at pursuing recess appointments, which would allow him to bypass the traditional confirmation process. This approach, however, would need the approval of congressional leadership, potentially challenging the Senate’s role in vetting presidential appointments.

Senate Republicans have not confirmed their stance on this strategy, leaving open the possibility of supporting Trump’s unconventional approach to staffing his cabinet.