The Republicans to Watch During Kennedy's Confirmation Hearings
Briefly

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced a pivotal Senate Finance Committee hearing that could determine his nomination as the nation's health secretary. To secure a majority in the Senate, he must garner support from key Republican senators, as he is likely to be opposed by nearly all Democrats. Notably, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a polio survivor, expressed concerns about Kennedy's history of vaccine skepticism, which could jeopardize his confirmation. Senator Cassidy has shown unease after a candid meeting with Kennedy, reflecting the trepidation among Republicans regarding his health policies.
Mr. Kennedy's confirmation as health secretary hinges on gaining support from a few Republican senators amid a largely opposed Democratic front, raising concerns over vaccine skepticism.
In a Senate divided evenly, Mr. Kennedy can lose the support of only three senators for his health secretary nomination, making Republican support crucial.
Senator McConnell's warning to Mr. Kennedy highlights the serious implications of undermining public confidence in vaccines, a central issue in this nomination battle.
Senator Cassidy's unease over Mr. Kennedy and his frank conversation reflects broader concerns among some Republicans related to Kennedy’s controversial views on health policy.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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