RFK Jr. to meet with slew of Dems including Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is gearing up for a series of meetings with over a dozen senators over the next two days, including top progressive Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., among others in the Democratic caucus. President-elect Donald Trump had previously announced that Kennedy was his pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in his second administration.
Kennedy, a former Democrat and independent presidential candidate, has been diligently meeting with senators on Capitol Hill to garner support for his confirmation. Up until now, he had only met with Republicans in the upper chamber, but on Wednesday, he is scheduled to meet with key Democrats who could play a pivotal role in his confirmation process.
Among the Democratic senators Kennedy will meet with are Catherine Cortez-Masto of Nevada, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Michael Bennet of Colorado, Mark Warner of Virginia, Warren, and Sanders. These meetings are crucial as some Democrats have shown openness to Kennedy’s positions, particularly on agriculture and food production.
However, Kennedy’s stance on certain policy issues, particularly in the realm of agriculture, may pose challenges to garnering support from Republicans in the Senate. Senators like Chuck Grassley of Iowa have expressed concerns about Kennedy’s views on agriculture and how they could impact farmers. Grassley emphasized the importance of modern farming techniques, including genetic engineering, to meet food demand and support farmers.
Despite some reservations among Republicans, there are senators like Tommy Tuberville of Alabama who are supportive of Kennedy. Tuberville mentioned that Kennedy understands the challenges facing farmers and is committed to ensuring their livelihoods. Additionally, Kennedy has the backing of a group of Senate Republicans who are championing his nomination and aligning with Trump’s vision to “Make America Healthy Again.”
Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump ahead of the 2024 election has solidified their partnership in promoting health policies for the country. The slogan “Make America Healthy Again” has gained traction among Senate Republicans who are advocating for Kennedy’s confirmation as HHS Secretary.
As Kennedy continues his meetings with senators from both sides of the aisle, the outcome of his confirmation remains uncertain. However, with support from key Democrats and some Republicans, Kennedy is hopeful that he will be able to lead the HHS and enact policies that prioritize the health and well-being of all Americans.
