The US Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Thursday, marking a decisive step toward restoring integrity and transparency to America’s health policies.
Kennedy, a longtime advocate for medical freedom and corporate accountability, secured his confirmation with a 52-48 vote in the Republican-led Senate. His nomination faced fierce resistance from entrenched interests in Washington.
A fierce critic of Big Pharma and its unchecked influence, Kennedy has been a champion for Americans concerned about the rise of chronic diseases and the overreach of government-mandated medical interventions. His appointment signals a shift toward an HHS that prioritises personal choice, rigorous oversight, and data-driven policies free from corporate influence.
Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was the lone Republican to oppose Kennedy’s nomination.
Kennedy’s confirmation hearings were a battleground where Democrats, beholden to powerful pharmaceutical lobbies, attempted to discredit him for challenging the status quo. Despite their best efforts, Kennedy remained steadfast in his commitment to exposing corruption and promoting genuine public health solutions.
His leadership at Children’s Health Defense, where he fought against harmful policies and government overreach, was a key point of contention for Senate Democrats. But Kennedy’s history of standing up for the American people only further solidified his credibility among those who demand accountability in public health.
Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., a physician and chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), initially voiced concerns about Kennedy’s past skepticism toward vaccine safety. However, after direct discussions with Kennedy, Cassidy recognised the nominee’s commitment to transparency, scientific integrity, and open debate—ultimately ensuring a favourable committee vote that propelled Kennedy’s nomination to the full Senate.
Kennedy’s confirmation was bolstered by key Republican Senators, including Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.
A major focus of Kennedy’s tenure at HHS will be his “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, a revolutionary plan to address the root causes of chronic disease, overhaul outdated dietary guidelines, and challenge the influence of ultra-processed food industries. His vision aligns with President Trump’s broader agenda of putting Americans first and dismantling corrupt bureaucratic strongholds.
“Our country faces a crisis—not from tax rates or economic fluctuations, but from a failure to protect our citizens from preventable disease,” Kennedy said. “I am uniquely positioned to lead this charge and ensure our health policies are based on true science, not corporate profits.”
Kennedy’s confirmation is also a testament to his remarkable political journey. Once a Democratic hopeful in the 2024 presidential race, he later recognised the Trump administration’s alignment with many of his core values and boldly endorsed the President. His decision to join the Trump administration showcases his commitment to fighting for the American people above party politics.
Trump, who had once sparred with Kennedy during the campaign, later praised him as “an incredible champion for truth, health, and freedom.”