📍 Washington, D.C. — Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. found himself in the political crosshairs Thursday as he testified before the Senate Finance Committee amid growing backlash over sweeping changes to federal health policy and leadership at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The hearing, marked by tense exchanges and emotional appeals, followed the abrupt firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez after just 29 days in office. Monarez had publicly resisted Kennedy’s push to overhaul vaccine advisory panels, accusing him of pressuring her to rubber-stamp recommendations from newly appointed members with known anti-vaccine views2.
Kennedy denied the allegations, calling Monarez’s claims “a lie” and insisting he never met with her privately. But senators from both parties expressed alarm over the turmoil at the CDC, with several demanding Kennedy’s resignation. “Robert Kennedy has failed to protect the health of the American people,” read a joint statement from 12 Democratic senators ahead of the hearing1.
🔥 Flashpoints from the Hearing:
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Vaccine Panel Overhaul: Kennedy confirmed he fired all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, replacing them with individuals who share his skepticism of mRNA vaccines.
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Funding Cuts: He slashed $500 million in mRNA vaccine research, prompting criticism from public health experts and lawmakers alike.
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Resignations and Protests: At least four senior CDC officials resigned in protest, and staff staged a walkout at the agency’s Atlanta headquarters.
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Public Health Concerns: Kennedy cited CDC data showing that 76.4% of Americans now suffer from chronic disease, calling it a “national security issue” and justifying his aggressive reforms.
Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) pressed Kennedy on whether his actions were politically motivated, warning that the politicization of vaccine policy could cost lives. “Kids will die because of this,” Wyden said bluntly.
Meanwhile, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), who had previously supported Kennedy’s confirmation, appeared visibly frustrated. “How can you be that ignorant?” Cassidy asked after Kennedy admitted he didn’t know how many Americans had died from COVID-196.
Outside the hearing room, protesters disrupted proceedings, underscoring the deep divisions over Kennedy’s leadership. Inside, the tension was palpable as lawmakers weighed whether the secretary’s actions were reformist zeal—or reckless disregard for science.
As the dust settles, the future of Kennedy’s tenure remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the Department of Health and Human Services is under intense scrutiny, and Capitol Hill is demanding answers.
You can follow the full coverage on ABC News and STAT News.
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