RFK Jr. had weekend conversations with key Republican before committee vote

Over the weekend, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. engaged in conversations with Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., who holds the power to potentially halt Kennedy’s confirmation process for secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). Sen. Cassidy, a doctor and one of the few Republican senators who voted to convict President Donald Trump for his alleged role in inciting the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, is a crucial vote on the 27-member Senate Finance Committee, which will decide the fate of Kennedy’s nomination.

During their discussions, Cassidy expressed his reservations about Kennedy’s nomination, particularly regarding his criticism of vaccinations. Cassidy voiced concerns about the potential consequences of Kennedy’s views on vaccination policies, especially in the event of preventable deaths. He emphasized the importance of public health and the potential impact on President Trump’s legacy.

Although Cassidy has not yet disclosed how he plans to vote on Kennedy’s nomination, his conversations with Kennedy over the weekend suggest that he is carefully considering his decision. Other lawmakers, such as Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., have endorsed Kennedy, citing his leadership on healthy lifestyle choices and commitment to reinstituting strong pro-life policies at HHS.

Kennedy will need the support of every Republican on the committee to advance his nomination, as no Democrats have indicated their support. The committee vote is scheduled for Tuesday morning, and the outcome remains uncertain. Despite the challenges ahead, Kennedy continues to garner support from key lawmakers as he navigates the confirmation process for HHS secretary.