Trump Transition Coverage Highlights – Nov. 14 | NBC News
Breaking News: President-Elect Trump Appoints Anti-Vaccine Activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services
President-elect Trump has made another surprising personnel pick, choosing Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist, to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services. The selection has raised concerns about Kennedy’s stance on vaccination and public health.
Kennedy has spoken out against COVID-19 vaccines and childhood vaccinations, although he recently said he would not take away vaccines from people who already have them. As Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kennedy would lead a family of agencies responsible for protecting the health of Americans, including the Centers for Disease Control and Food and Drug Administration.
Senate Confirmation Prospects Uncertain
Kennedy’s selection has sparked debate among lawmakers and health experts. Democrats have criticized the pick, citing Kennedy’s history of promoting discredited claims about vaccines and his lack of experience in public health. Republicans, on the other hand, have defended Kennedy, saying he has the right to hold a senior position in the administration.
Other Surprising Appointments
President-elect Trump has also selected Matt Gaetz, a conservative congressman, to serve as Attorney General, and Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and decorated combat veteran, to serve as Defense Secretary. Additionally, Trump has announced that he will pardon January 6 defendants on a case-by-case basis.
Potential Confirmation Battles Ahead
All three appointments are expected to face intense scrutiny during the confirmation process. Senate Democrats have already raised concerns about Gaetz’s fitness to serve as Attorney General, citing allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. Hegseth’s lack of experience in policy-making and management has also been questioned.
Health and Human Services Expert Weighs In
Dr. Ned Balader, a former senior advisor for Global COVID-19 Response and founding director of the Boston University Center on Emerging Infectious Diseases, spoke with NBC News about Kennedy’s appointment. "As a physician, someone who works in public health, I think what we all want is whoever takes this position appreciates the miracle in improving our quality of life and saving lives that public health has made," Dr. Balader said.
Vigilance Needed
Dr. Balader emphasized the importance of vigilance in ensuring the integrity of the health care system. "This is a serious moment in American history, and we need capable people, particularly because this man is President… He needs guardrails… We need to be vigilant, and we need to ensure that our leaders are capable of making decisions that put the public interest above personal interests."
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