Robert F. Kennedy Jr Confirmed as U.S. Health Secretary Despite Vaccine Criticism

The Senate approved Kennedy, a controversial figure with vaccine skepticism and conspiracy ties, to lead a department overseeing public health for over 340 million Americans.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a known vaccine skeptic and former environmental attorney, was confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Health with 52 votes in favor and 48 against in the Senate.
Kennedy's appointment, backed by the Republican majority, faced strong opposition from Democrats and health experts over his past antivaccine statements and promotion of conspiracy theories.
He has pledged to support 'informed consent' policies and stated he does not intend to remove vaccines, though many scientists remain unconvinced by his reassurances.
Kennedy plans to focus on combating chronic diseases and unhealthy diets, a bipartisan issue he has long championed, while advocating for greater transparency in health policies.
Critics, including public health officials, fear his leadership could undermine vaccine confidence, potentially reversing progress on eradicating diseases like measles and whooping cough.