RFK Jr. sworn in as Health and Human Services secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was officially sworn in as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) after a close vote of 52-48 in the Republican-controlled Senate. The ceremony took place in the Oval Office, where Kennedy stood alongside his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, and his children, as he placed his hand on a Bible and took the oath of office. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch administered the oath.
During the ceremony, Kennedy reflected on his first visit to the Oval Office in 1962, where he met with his uncle, then-President John F. Kennedy, to discuss environmental issues. He expressed his gratitude to President Trump for appointing him to this position, stating that he had prayed for 20 years to be in a position to end the childhood chronic disease epidemic in the country.
Despite the majority of Republicans supporting Kennedy’s confirmation, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was the only Republican to vote against him. McConnell, a polio survivor and advocate for vaccines, expressed concerns about Kennedy’s skepticism towards vaccines.
Kennedy, a well-known vaccine skeptic and environmental activist, has pledged to focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases during his tenure as Secretary of HHS. His “Make America Healthy Again” campaign aims to overhaul dietary guidelines, target ultra-processed foods, and promote overall wellness.
Kennedy’s nomination and confirmation have sparked controversy, with some Democrats and Republicans raising concerns about his views on vaccines and the pharmaceutical industry. However, Kennedy’s endorsement of President Trump in August 2024 marked a significant shift in his political alliances, as he transitioned from being a Democrat to aligning with far-right leaders.
As Secretary of HHS, Kennedy faces the daunting task of leading the nation’s health and human services agencies during a time of unprecedented challenges. His commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and addressing chronic diseases will undoubtedly shape the future of public health in America.
