Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed his intention to meet with Senate Democrats as he seeks confirmation as the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in President-elect Trump's upcoming administration. Kennedy, a former Democrat and independent presidential candidate, confirmed that he plans to engage with both Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill.
While Kennedy did not specify which Senate Democrats he would be meeting with, he initiated his Capitol Hill meetings by engaging with several Republicans earlier this week. Notably, no Democratic senators were included in the initial list of lawmakers he was scheduled to meet.
President-elect Trump announced Kennedy as his pick for HHS last month, following Kennedy's endorsement of Trump after dropping out of the 2024 election race. However, Kennedy's confirmation process may face challenges, particularly concerning his stances on vaccines, agriculture, and abortion.
As an outspoken skeptic of vaccinations, Kennedy's views have raised concerns among both Republican and Democrat senators. Additionally, his support for abortion rights has left some Republicans questioning his alignment with HHS responsibilities related to abortion regulations.
Despite his criticisms of the food industry and farming practices, which have resonated with Democrats, Republicans from agricultural states are wary of potential policies that could burden farmers and ranchers. The composition of the Senate coalition supporting Kennedy remains uncertain, with questions lingering about whether he will garner full Republican support or require backing from some Democrats to secure confirmation.
