GOP Sen. Cassidy seeks to explains RFK Jr. confirmation vote for Health and Human Services

June 28, 2026 - 22:17

Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana appeared on a Sunday interview program to clarify his decision to vote in favor of confirming Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Cassidy acknowledged that the vote has drawn sharp criticism from both sides of the aisle, but he argued that Kennedy is firmly committed to his new role and will not be easily swayed by outside pressure.

During the interview, Cassidy explained that while he has personal disagreements with some of Kennedy's past statements on vaccines and public health, he believes the nominee has demonstrated a willingness to listen to scientific evidence during the confirmation process. Cassidy stressed that Kennedy has promised to focus on chronic disease prevention and reforming the food supply, which are priorities the Louisiana senator shares.

The vote has been a point of contention, with many public health experts questioning Kennedy's qualifications and past advocacy. Cassidy, a physician himself, noted that he pressed Kennedy on several key issues behind closed doors and came away convinced that the nominee would not "blow up" the agencies under HHS. He added that he expects to hold Kennedy accountable if he deviates from his commitments.

Cassidy's explanation comes as the Biden administration and congressional Democrats have criticized the confirmation, warning that Kennedy's leadership could undermine trust in federal health agencies. The senator, however, maintained that his vote was based on a pragmatic assessment of what Kennedy could achieve rather than a full endorsement of his entire record.