Kentucky senator reacts to RFK Jr. confirmation as nation’s health secretary: ‘Mr. Kennedy failed’

KENTUCKY (FOX 56) — On Thursday, Sen. Mitch McConnell responded to the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services Secretary.

Sen. McConnell said in a news release that as a survivor of childhood polio, he has watched vaccines save millions of lives from diseases across the country and around the world.

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“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,” Sen. McConnell said. “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.”

The former Senate majority leader called on the Trump administration to acknowledge the efficacy of vaccines, calling Project Warp Speed, which delivered high volumes of the COVID-19 vaccine in 2021, a medical miracle.

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“Mr. Kennedy failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America’s largest health agency,” McConnell said. “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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