Former FDA Chief Expresses Concerns Over RFK Jr.’s Senate Confirmation
In a recent television appearance, Scott Gottlieb, the former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration under the Trump administration, has raised red flags with Senate Republicans regarding President-elect’s selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Gottlieb mentioned that there is more skepticism within the Republican caucus about RFK Jr.’s nomination than what is currently being reported in the media.
Gottlieb stated that he has been in discussions with individual senators to voice his concerns and plans to continue doing so. His efforts seem to be aimed at undermining RFK Jr.’s nomination before the Senate reconvenes after the Thanksgiving break, during which RFK Jr. could engage with senators for confirmation talks.
While moderate Republicans have not yet disclosed their stance on supporting RFK Jr.’s nomination, it is crucial to note that a significant number of Republican votes would need to oppose him for the nomination to fail, given the Republican majority in the Senate. Gottlieb outlined several potential challenges that RFK Jr.’s nomination might encounter, including opposition from senators with agricultural interests, anti-abortion senators, and those who prioritize public health due to RFK Jr.’s past positions on such issues.
Additionally, Gottlieb expressed doubts about the effectiveness of imposing conditions on HHS funding by Congress as a means to control RFK Jr.’s actions. He emphasized that reining in an executive agency through funding conditions may not be feasible and could lead to delays in passing essential government spending bills.
Gottlieb raised concerns about potential public health risks that could arise from RFK Jr.’s actions, particularly in relation to childhood vaccines. He warned that RFK Jr.’s intentions could result in adverse consequences, such as disbanding and reorganizing vaccine advisory committees and impeding funding for vital vaccine programs.
Moreover, Gottlieb highlighted the expertise of the team RFK Jr. is assembling, noting their ties to anti-vaccine groups. He also criticized David Weldon, Trump’s CDC nominee, as an “anti-vaxxer,” expressing further reservations about the administration’s approach to public health.
In response to Gottlieb’s criticisms, RFK Jr.’s advisor, Calley Means, accused Gottlieb of undermining President Trump’s reform agenda and questioned his loyalty. The tensions between Gottlieb and Trump’s administration picks underscore the contentious nature of RFK Jr.’s potential appointment.
It is essential to consider the various perspectives and concerns raised by former Trump administration officials regarding RFK Jr.’s nomination. As the confirmation process unfolds, the potential implications of RFK Jr.’s leadership on crucial public health issues will continue to be a subject of debate and scrutiny.
