Over the weekend, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. engaged in discussions with Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., a pivotal figure who could 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 Trump for his alleged role in the Capitol riot, holds significant sway over Kennedy's nomination progress. Cassidy's upcoming vote on the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday will determine whether Kennedy's nomination advances to the Senate floor or faces potential stagnation in committee.
While Cassidy has not disclosed his voting intentions, he expressed concerns during Kennedy's hearings, particularly regarding vaccination policies and attitudes. The senator emphasized the importance of preventing vaccine-preventable diseases and the potential repercussions of any missteps in public health decisions.
Despite Cassidy's reservations, Kennedy has garnered support from other lawmakers like Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., who praised Kennedy's focus on healthy lifestyle choices and commitment to reinstating pro-life policies at HHS. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., while not fully endorsing Kennedy, acknowledged the nominee's positive trajectory.
With no Democratic support confirmed and the committee vote scheduled for Tuesday morning, Kennedy faces a critical juncture in his confirmation process. Securing the backing of every Republican on the committee appears essential for Kennedy's advancement.
