Multiple outbursts erupt at RFK Jr. hearing: ‘You are!’

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, faced multiple interruptions during his hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday morning.

Kennedy addressed the committee, stating, “I want to make sure the committee is clear about a few things. News reports have claimed that I’m anti-vaccine or any industry. I am neither. I am pro safety.” However, his remarks were met with outbursts from protesters in the audience.

One female protester shouted, “You are,” when Kennedy denied being anti-vaccine. This interruption was followed by another disturbance, prompting Senate Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo to issue a warning against further disruptions.

A protester in the audience held a sign that read, “Vaccines Save Lives, Not RFK JR.” Despite the interruptions, Kennedy continued to defend his stance on vaccines, emphasizing the importance of safety and his belief in the critical role of vaccines in healthcare.

Kennedy’s hearing before the Senate Finance Committee was just the first, with another scheduled appearance before the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee on Thursday. The nominee has faced criticism for his views on vaccines, but he reiterated his position that he is not anti-vaccine and has worked to raise awareness about health issues.

Protests during Senate hearings for Trump administration nominees have become common, with other officials like Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio also facing disruptions in their respective hearings. Despite the interruptions, Kennedy remained steadfast in his advocacy for addressing health challenges in the country.

Overall, Kennedy’s hearing was marked by disruptions from protesters, but he stood firm in his defense of vaccine safety and his commitment to addressing health issues in the United States.