Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday for his confirmation hearing as President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Throughout the session, RFK Jr. addressed various critical topics, outlining his vision for the department and defending his stance on key health issues. He emphasized his commitment to transparency, patient safety, and addressing critical health issues while answering tough questions from lawmakers.
While his past comments on vaccine safety have drawn scrutiny, RFK Jr. assured senators that his focus as HHS Secretary would be on empowering individuals with reliable health information and strengthening public trust in medical institutions.
Here are the top takeaways from his first confirmation hearing.
Supporters Pack the Senate
Hundreds of supporters flooded Capitol Hill on Wednesday as RFK Jr. faced senators at his first confirmation hearing. A clip from MAHA Alliance showed a crowd lining up at the Senate building, holding signs and wearing shirts backing RFK Jr.
Inside the chamber, VIPs, celebrities, and advocates filled the room, uniting behind Kennedy Jr.’s appointment.
Among the celebrities in attendance were Marla Maples, actress and former wife of President Trump; Megan Kelly, journalist and political commentator; and Van Hari, influencer and food activist. Also present were Casey and Calley Means, founders of the wellness platform Levels, along with Sayer Ji, a health and nutrition advocate.
Joining them were key advocates, including Zen Honeycutt, founder of Moms Across America; Liana Werner-Gray, nutritionist and bestselling author; and Michael Kane, teachers’ rights activist and leader of Teachers for Choice.
The Senate hall was a visual representation of Kennedy Jr.'s rallying cry, "United, Unstoppable!"
Stance on Vaccines
During the hearing, RFK Jr. sought to clarify his position on vaccines, a topic that has been central to his public persona and has been one of the most controversial issues relating to his HHS nomination.
In his opening statement, RFK Jr. pointed out, “I want to make sure the Committee is clear about a few things. News reports have claimed that I am anti-vaccine or anti-industry. Well, I am neither; I am pro-safety.”
His assertion was in response to concerns raised by several senators regarding his past statements about vaccine safety. He emphasized his commitment to open scientific discussion and ensuring that public health policies are based on transparency, accountability, and the best available research.
He also clarified that he supports the polio and measles vaccines, and "will do nothing as HHS secretary that makes it difficult or discourages people from taking either of those vaccines."
Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) also engaged Kennedy Jr. in a discussion about his views on vaccine safety, seeking clarity on how his perspectives would shape his leadership at HHS. Kennedy emphasized his commitment to vaccine safety and the importance of public trust in immunization programs. He reiterated, “I am not anti-vaccine; I am pro-safety.”
Views on Abortion
The hearing also delved into Kennedy Jr.’s stance on abortion, a topic of significant national debate. Kennedy expressed his views, stating, "I've always believed every abortion is a tragedy."
He also backed Trump's position on the matter, saying he would follow the president's policy positions on abortion.
"I agree with President Trump that every abortion is a tragedy. I agree with him we cannot be a moral nation if we have 1.2 million abortions a year. I agree with him that the states should control abortion. President Trump has told me that he wants to end late-term abortions. He wants to protect conscience exemptions."
He added, "I serve at the pleasure of the president. I'm going to implement his policies."
In December, Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) shared on X that Kennedy Jr. promised he would "reinstate President Trump’s pro-life policies at HHS" and that "all of his deputies at HHS would be pro-life."
Children’s Health Concerns
RFK Jr. also expressed deep concern over what he described as a crisis in children’s health. He pointed to rising rates of chronic illnesses among children and emphasized the need for comprehensive research to identify underlying causes.
For years, RFK Jr. has advocated for initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to potential toxins and improving nutrition standards in schools. During the hearing, he highlighted the importance of preventive measures and the role of HHS in implementing policies that safeguard children’s well-being. His emphasis on environmental factors reflects his longstanding environmental advocacy and its intersection with public health.
Approach to HIV Treatment
When questioned about HIV treatment, Kennedy underscored the importance of accessible and effective medications. He acknowledged advancements in HIV medicine and the critical role the U.S. holds in providing life-saving care to people most in need.
Under the first Trump administration, the number of people receiving HIV treatment in Africa rose from 12 million to 18 million under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
"I absolutely support PEPFAR and I will happily work with you to strengthen the program," he told Senator John Cornyn (R-TX).
Plans to Address Addiction
Drawing from personal experience, Kennedy discussed his comprehensive plans to tackle addiction. When asked by Senator Cornyn about his plans to address addiction and substance abuse, he reflected on his own struggles with heroin addiction as a young man.
"This is a priority for me," he said.
"Addicts almost always go through a cycle where there is a moment where they hit periodic bottoms where they’re ready to go into treatment. But it’s fleeting and it’s momentary and we have an opportunity to save their lives."
RFK Jr. admitted to being a heroin addict for 14 years and has been in recovery for over four decades. He still attends 12-step meetings daily. He emphasized the need for community-based approaches and the involvement of various stakeholders in combating the addiction crisis.
Handling of the Hearing
Throughout the hearing, Kennedy Jr. maintained a composed and respectful demeanor, effectively addressing concerns raised by committee members. He demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in the nation’s healthcare system and conveyed a willingness to collaborate with stakeholders across the political spectrum.
His performance during the hearing showed his readiness to lead the Department of Health and Human Services and his commitment to enhancing the nation’s health services with integrity and dedication.
Kennedy Jr.‘s confirmation process for the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services continues with a second hearing scheduled for Thursday, before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. The hearing will provide an additional opportunity for lawmakers to question Kennedy on his policy positions and plans for leading the Department of Health and Human Services. These proceedings are part of the Senate’s vetting process before a final confirmation vote.
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