Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana voted to advance Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for Health and Human Services secretary, giving him enough votes to clear the Senate Finance Committee and advance to a full floor vote in the Senate.
The vote was on party lines, 14-13.
Why It Matters
Kennedy appeared before the Senate Finance Committee last week for his confirmation hearing to become President Donald Trump’s Health and Human Services head. Another hearing was held before the Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee. His confirmation requires a simple majority in the Senate, meaning he could be blocked if all Democrats and three Republicans vote against him.
Kennedy focused many of his proposals on Wednesday on diseases among low-income Americans, especially those who rely heavily on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. He was also questioned about his positions on vaccinations as well as abortion rights.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. testifies during his Senate confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., on January 30, 2025. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. testifies during his Senate confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., on January 30, 2025. AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.
What To Know
Senate Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo, an Idaho Republican, and Democratic Senators Ron Wyden of Oregon, Maria Cantwell of Washington, and Raphael Warnock of Georgia spoke before the vote.
Crapo pointed out that Kennedy has
RFK Jr. Clears Major Hurdle Toward Confirmation as Health Secretary
