Summary
Senators from both parties questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about his vaccine policies during a Senate hearing. Criticism focused on his limits on COVID-19 vaccine access, changes to the CDC's vaccine panel, and the firing of CDC chief Susan Monarez.
Key Facts
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health and Human Services Secretary.
- During a Senate hearing, Kennedy faced calls to resign and criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.
- His changes include canceling mRNA vaccine research funding and restricting COVID-19 vaccine access to high-risk groups and those over 65.
- Kennedy replaced the CDC's 17-member vaccine advisory panel with members criticized for being vaccine skeptics.
- Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy accused him of limiting vaccine access, which he pledged not to do during his confirmation.
- Kennedy defended his actions by claiming they were necessary to improve the health agencies' standards.
- He dismissed CDC chief Susan Monarez after just a month, citing trust issues.
- Ron Johnson defended Kennedy, calling criticisms from other senators "abuse."
