The United States Senate on Thursday voted to confirm Robert Kennedy Jr as Health and Human Services secretary, ending a weeks-long confirmation hearing on the controversial Donald Trump’s pick for the position.
Mr Kennedy’s confirmation hearing was largely centred around his controversial positions on vaccines, which he said are linked to autism and other health issues despite a lack of scientific evidence to support his claim.
He also holds questionable views on other public health policies, including on the food industry.
Despite many senators raising concerns about his views on health policy, Mr Kennedy was confirmed in a 52-48 vote, which was along party lines, except for Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, who voted against the nominee.
Mr McConnell cited his experience as a survivor of childhood polio in a statement explaining his opposition to Mr Kennedy.
“This administration – led by the same president who delivered a medical miracle with Project Warp Speed – deserves a leader who is willing to acknowledge without qualification the efficacy of life-saving vaccines and who can demonstrate an understanding of basic elements of the U.S. healthcare system,” Mr McConnell said.
“Mr Kennedy failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America’s largest health agency.”
None of Mr Trump’s nominees have failed to scale through the Senate confirmation votes, highlighting the president’s strong influence on the Senate Republicans, who have the majority control.
