The Senate confirms Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary and advances Kash Patel’s FBI Director nomination amid notable internal GOP divisions.
In the past 24 hours, the U.S. Senate has been active in confirming significant Cabinet appointments and navigating internal party dynamics:
- Confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary: The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services with a narrow 52-48 vote. Despite his known vaccine skepticism, most Republicans supported the nomination, while Senator Mitch McConnell opposed it, citing personal health experiences. Kennedy has pledged to ensure vaccine safety and reduce corporate influence in health regulation. theguardian.com
- Advancement of Kash Patel’s Nomination for FBI Director: Kash Patel, nominated by President Trump for FBI Director, cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee along party lines and now awaits a full Senate vote. While Republicans praised his commitment to eliminating political bias, Democrats expressed concerns over his past actions and statements. apnews.com
- Internal Party Divisions: Former Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell has recently broken ranks by opposing several of President Trump’s high-profile nominees, including Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health Secretary. His dissent underscores a growing divide within the party regarding the administration’s appointments. politico.com
Bibliography:
- “Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sworn in as health secretary after Senate confirmation.” The Guardian, February 13, 2025. theguardian.com
- “Senate panel advances nomination of Kash Patel, Trump’s pick to lead the FBI.” Associated Press, February 13, 2025. apnews.com
- “Mitch McConnell’s party of one.” Politico, February 13, 2025. politico.com
