Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, has been meeting with U.S. senators this week, navigating concerns over his anti-vaccine stance. While no Republicans have signaled plans to block his confirmation, skepticism remains among both parties.
Kennedy, whose nomination has drawn criticism from public health experts and consumer groups, aims to win over Republican senators, as their 53-47 majority leaves little room for dissent if Democrats unanimously oppose him. Of the 12 senators he met with on Monday and Tuesday, five have committed to supporting him, while others described the meetings as positive but declined public endorsements.
Key senators still on Kennedy’s schedule include Lisa Murkowski, Shelley Moore Capito, Susan Collins, and Ted Budd, whose votes could be critical. He has already spoken with Mike Crapo, the incoming Senate Finance Committee chair responsible for advancing his nomination, though Crapo has not indicated how he will vote. Kennedy also plans to meet with Bill Cassidy, the incoming chair of the health committee, later this week.
Despite being a lifelong Democrat who ran as an independent in the 2024 presidential race before endorsing Trump, Kennedy has sought to reassure Republicans. Senator Tommy Tuberville stated Kennedy expressed full support for Trump’s anti-abortion agenda, alleviating some GOP concerns about his prior pro-choice stance.
Kennedy said the meetings have been “really productive” and hopes to meet with Democratic senators soon, though none have been confirmed. His opposition to vaccine mandates remains a contentious issue, with critics warning it could endanger public health if implemented.
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