WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump announced plans Thursday to nominate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to head the Department of Health and Human Services, another controversial nominee who could face a difficult confirmation process in the U.S. Senate due to his unscientific beliefs on public health, including his anti-vaccine stance.

“I am pleased to announce Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as United States Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS),” Trump said on social media. “For too long, Americans have been crushed by the industrial food complex and pharmaceutical companies that have engaged in public health deception, misinformation, and misinformation.

“The safety and health of all Americans is the most important role of any administration, and HHS will play an important role in helping to ensure that everyone is protected from harmful chemicals, pollutants, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and food additives that have contributed to the overwhelming health crisis this country is experiencing.

HHS receives approximately $116.8 billion in federal funds each year and is home to several high-profile public health agencies, including the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response or ASPR, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Food and Prevention. Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Kennedy ran in this year’s presidential election as an independent candidate, often repeating inaccurate information about vaccines and spreading other conspiracy theories about public health.

He has no background in science, research or medicine. He graduated from Harvard University before receiving a law degree from the University of Virginia Law School.

He pleaded guilty to possession of heroin in Rapid City, SD, in February 1984, before receiving two years of probation, which ended a year earlier. He volunteered with the Natural Resources Defense Council as part of this probationary period.

Kennedy spent much of his career as an environmental lawyer and published several books.

After ending his own presidential bid this year, Kennedy supported Trump and frequently campaigned for him.

Criticism of the nomination began quickly after the news was announced Thursday, although far-right Republicans are expected to celebrate the nomination.

Lisa Gilbert, co-president of the nonprofit watchdog organization Public Citizen, issued a written statement saying: “Kennedy is a science-denying, morally bankrupt conspiracy theorist who will endanger people’s lives at risk if placed in a position of authority over health matters. The U.S. Senate should unanimously reject this nomination.”

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul congratulated Kennedy on social media, writing “Congratulations to @RobertKennedyJr on his nomination to be Secretary of Health and Human Services. Finally, someone to detoxify the place after the Fauci era. Get ready for healthcare freedom and MAHA! »

Last updated at 4:24 p.m., November 14, 2024