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In a decision that has sparked intense debate, the United States Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 71 years old, as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS for short) this Thursday.
The vote, which was held with a narrow margin of 52 votes in favor and 48 against, reflects the division surrounding the lawyer and environmental activist, known for his controversial stances on vaccines and public health, reported the agency Efe.
Kennedy Jr., the nephew of former President John F. Kennedy and son of former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, has been a polarizing figure due to his criticisms of the pharmaceutical industry and his skepticism towards certain vaccination policies.
Her nomination generated strong opposition from health experts and lawmakers, who expressed concerns about the impact of her leadership on the agency responsible for public health in the country.
More than 75 Nobel laureates urged the Senate to reject his nomination, arguing that it would endanger public health.
Despite the criticism, Kennedy Jr. received the support of a coalition of senators who argued that his critical perspective could bring transparency and accountability to health administration.
From the White House, the government celebrated with a message on X: "The confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of HHS underscores President Trump's commitment to empowering Americans with healthier lives, restoring trust in public health institutions, and defending medical freedom for all."
His appointment represents an unexpected shift in the health policy of the current administration. His leadership is expected to face significant challenges, particularly in public health and pharmaceutical regulation.
While some see in him an opportunity to reform the system, others fear that his positions could undermine decades of progress in public health.
During his confirmation hearing in the Senate on January 30, Kennedy Jr. denied being anti-vaccine and committed to not discouraging their use, despite having previously argued that none are completely safe.
Specifically, he stated that he supports the administration of vaccines against measles and polio: "I will do nothing as Secretary of Health that would hinder or discourage people from receiving any of those vaccines," he affirmed.
Her nomination also faced opposition from within her own family. Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy, urged the Senate to reject her cousin's nomination, arguing that he is unfit for the position.
With his confirmation, Kennedy Jr. takes on the leadership of HHS at a critical time, facing significant public health challenges and ongoing debates over vaccination policies and pandemic management.
Frequently asked questions about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation as Secretary of Health of the U.S.
Why is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation as Secretary of Health controversial?
The confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is controversial due to his contentious positions on vaccines and public health. Kennedy has been a critic of the pharmaceutical industry and has expressed skepticism towards certain vaccination policies, raising concerns among health experts and lawmakers about the impact of his leadership on the country's public health.
What arguments did the opponents present against Kennedy Jr.'s nomination?
Opponents of Kennedy Jr.'s nomination argued that his leadership could jeopardize public health. More than 75 Nobel laureates urged the Senate to reject his nomination, concerned that his critical opinions could undermine decades of progress in public health and affect trust in health institutions.
What position has Kennedy Jr. adopted regarding vaccines since his nomination?
Kennedy Jr. has denied being anti-vaccine and has committed to not discouraging their use. During his confirmation hearing, he stated that he supports the administration of vaccines against measles and polio, promising that he will not take actions that would discourage people from getting vaccinated.
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