Trump’s Health Pick RFK Jr. Starts Capitol Hill Meetings with GOP Senators

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., selected by President-elect Donald Trump as his choice for Health and Human Services secretary, has begun a series of meetings with Republican senators on Capitol Hill. Kennedy’s nomination is already facing scrutiny, particularly over his controversial anti-vaccine views, stance on abortion, and proposed changes to the healthcare system.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began meeting with over two dozen Republican senators this week as part of his nomination process for health and human services secretary, amid concerns over his views on vaccines, abortion, and healthcare reform.

Kennedy, an environmental lawyer and activist, began his Capitol Hill visits on Monday, engaging with key Republican figures, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, Majority Whip John Barrasso of Wyoming, and the soon-to-be Finance Committee Chair Mike Crapo of Idaho. These meetings are crucial as the Finance Committee, which Crapo will head, will play a central role in approving or rejecting Kennedy’s nomination.

The nominee's meetings are expected to cover a wide range of topics, particularly his well-known stance against vaccines. This issue, which has led to his alienation from the medical community in the past, is expected to come up repeatedly in discussions with lawmakers. Kennedy is also anticipated to address his vision for transforming the healthcare industry under Trump’s administration.

First Meeting with Rick Scott Leads to Early Endorsements

Kennedy's first meeting with Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) went smoothly, with Scott expressing full support for Kennedy’s goals. Scott emphasized shared views on vaccine transparency, signaling an early endorsement of Kennedy’s approach. "I'm completely supportive of what he wants to accomplish, and I wish him the best of luck," Scott said after their meeting.

Kennedy’s nomination is particularly contentious due to his anti-vaccine rhetoric. While he has stated his opposition to certain vaccines, he has reaffirmed his support for the polio vaccine. "Yeah, I support it," Kennedy said when asked about the vaccine. The issue is even more sensitive following recent comments by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who criticized suggestions that Kennedy or his advisers might seek to rescind approval for the polio vaccine. McConnell, who is a polio survivor, has been a vocal advocate for the vaccine, calling attempts to undermine public confidence in it "dangerous."

In response to McConnell's concerns, Kennedy's spokeswoman, Katie Miller, denied any such discussions, stating, “The Polio Vaccine should be available to the public and thoroughly and properly studied.” This statement was meant to clarify any misunderstanding stemming from media reports linking Kennedy to those controversial ideas.

Abortion Views to Be a Key Topic in Meetings

As Kennedy continues his meetings with senators this week, he is also expected to face tough questions about his stance on abortion. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) has expressed concern over Kennedy’s views on abortion rights, a highly sensitive issue for many Republicans. Lankford, referencing the Trump administration’s policies on abortion, noted that President Joe Biden’s administration had reversed many of those protections. Lankford’s comments reflect the growing opposition to Kennedy’s position within the GOP on social issues.

The Republican-controlled Senate, which will have 53 seats starting January 3, 2025, gives Kennedy some leeway, as he can afford three defections for his confirmation to pass. However, should four Republicans vote against him, his nomination could fail unless some Democrats break ranks and support him. This scenario makes the support of moderates such as Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) crucial for Kennedy’s chances.

Though no official date has been set, hearings for Kennedy’s confirmation could take place before January 20, 2025, when President Trump will be inaugurated. The final confirmation vote, however, cannot occur until Trump is in the White House, setting the stage for a potentially contentious confirmation battle.

McConnell and Barrasso's Influence Could Be Key for Kennedy

With crucial Senate figures like Mitch McConnell and John Barrasso in play, Kennedy’s path to confirmation will depend largely on how he navigates issues like vaccines and abortion. McConnell’s strong stance on the importance of vaccines could influence how other Republicans perceive Kennedy’s positions on health issues. His background and statements on vaccines and healthcare will be a major focus during the upcoming hearings.

Some Republicans, like Senator Rand Paul, a senior member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, are likely to have questions about Kennedy’s healthcare reform plans. Paul has previously criticized aspects of the healthcare system, and he could use his platform to question Kennedy’s approach to the complex issues at the heart of the health secretary’s duties.

Kennedy’s Efforts to Build Support Will Continue this Week

Kennedy’s meetings are not just about policy but also about building relationships with Senate Republicans who will have to confirm him. The senator’s interactions with figures such as Crapo, Barrasso, and Thune will be pivotal in the coming days as they weigh whether to support Kennedy’s nomination. With some Republicans already offering strong endorsements, Kennedy will be working to gain further backing in order to secure the votes he needs.

Despite the challenges, Kennedy is reportedly feeling optimistic about his nomination and the chance to discuss Trump’s vision for healthcare. A source familiar with Kennedy’s plans described him as “immensely prepared” for the meetings and excited to discuss how he could help reshape the nation’s health policies under Trump’s leadership.

Upcoming Meetings Will Determine Kennedy’s Confirmation Fate

As the nomination process progresses, all eyes will be on Senate Republicans, whose support will determine the outcome. Kennedy’s ability to address concerns over vaccines, abortion, and healthcare reform could make or break his chances of being confirmed as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services.

The confirmation process is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, especially as hearings are scheduled and Republicans weigh the implications of Kennedy’s views on critical health issues. His meetings with GOP senators this week will serve as a test for how he plans to navigate the ideological divides within his own party and secure the votes needed for confirmation.

In the coming days, Kennedy will meet with additional Republican senators, including Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), as he works to solidify his support within the Senate. How these interactions unfold could have a significant impact on his prospects for confirmation.