U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was again the lone Republican opposing a Trump nominee Thursday when he cast a no vote against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation as health secretary, a day after voting no on Tulsi Gabbard for national intelligence director. Earlier McConnell voted against Pete Hegseth for Defense secretary.
The U.S. Senate confirmed Kennedy 52-48 with all Democrats voting no.
McConnell cited what he called Kennedy’s “record of trafficking in dangerous conspiracy theories and eroding trust in public health institutions.”
McConnell issued the following statement: “I’m a survivor of childhood polio. In my lifetime, I’ve watched vaccines save millions of lives from devastating diseases across America and around the world. I will not condone the re-litigation of proven cures, and neither will millions of Americans who credit their survival and quality of life to scientific miracles.
“Individuals, parents, and families have a right to push for a healthier nation and demand the best possible scientific guidance on preventing and treating illness. But a record of trafficking in dangerous conspiracy theories and eroding trust in public health institutions does not entitle Mr. Kennedy to lead these important efforts.
“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. Kennedy failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America’s largest health agency. As he takes office, I sincerely hope Mr. Kennedy will choose not to sow further doubt and division but to restore trust in our public health institutions.”
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