Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was officially sworn in as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Thursday, following his confirmation by the Senate in a closely contested vote of 52-48. The vote, which largely fell along party lines, marked a significant moment for Kennedy, who has been a controversial figure due to his outspoken views on vaccines and public health.
The swearing-in ceremony took place in the Oval Office, where Kennedy was accompanied by his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, and their children. The oath of office was administered by Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch. During the ceremony, Kennedy reflected on his first visit to the Oval Office in 1962, when he met with his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, to discuss environmental issues.
Kennedy, who has long been an advocate for vaccine skepticism and environmental causes, expressed his gratitude to President Trump, stating, "For 20 years, I got on my knees every morning and prayed that God would put me in a position where I could end the childhood chronic disease epidemic in this country." He emphasized his commitment to addressing chronic diseases and promoting a healthier lifestyle as part of his agenda, which he has branded "Make America Healthy Again."
The confirmation process was not without controversy. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, the only Republican to oppose Kennedy’s nomination, cited his personal experiences with polio and his belief in the importance of vaccines. McConnell stated, "I will not condone the re-litigation of proven cures," highlighting the deep divides in opinions regarding public health policy.
Kennedy’s nomination came after he ended his bid for the presidency in 2024, where he had initially run as a Democrat before endorsing Trump. His views on vaccines and the pharmaceutical industry have drawn both support and criticism, positioning him as a polarizing figure in American politics.
In his new role, Kennedy aims to shift the focus of the HHS towards promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases, a mission he believes aligns with his past advocacy work. As he embarks on this new chapter, the implications of his policies and approach to health care will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike.