Democratic Sen. Patty Murray has expressed strong opposition to the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of health following a meeting between the two today. Sen. Murray, a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, remains steadfast in her stance against Kennedy's potential appointment.
In a statement released after the meeting, Sen. Murray criticized Kennedy for his anti-vaccine advocacy, labeling it as dangerous. Kennedy has long been known as a prominent figure in the anti-vaccine movement, spreading false conspiracy theories about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
Notably, Kennedy launched a presidential bid last year, initially as a Democratic challenger to President Joe Biden before transitioning to an independent candidacy. His platform focused heavily on addressing what he termed as the 'chronic disease epidemic,' proposing policy changes related to food safety, environmental guidelines, holistic medicines, and vaccine research funding.
Sen. Murray emphasized the importance of supporting vaccines as a life-saving measure, stating that someone who denies the efficacy of vaccines should not be entrusted with leading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She underscored the critical role of science and experience in affirming the benefits of vaccines for public health.
