32 sources·Health

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Health Secretary Nomination Faces Intense Scrutiny

RFK Jr.'s controversial views on vaccines, potential abortion regulations, and family backlash complicate his nomination as Health Secretary under President Trump.

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).
Mostly Reliable
The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
Balanced
The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.
Subscribe to unlock this story

We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!

Get Started
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearing to be health secretary: Five things to look for

    Kennedy's controversial past, particularly regarding vaccines and abortion, looms large over his confirmation hearings, raising significant doubts among both Republicans and Democrats about his suitability to lead a $1.7 trillion health agency.

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearing to be health secretary: Five things to look for

    Associated PressAssociated Press·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. 11 Questions Senators Should Ask RFK Jr. This Week

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial nomination for secretary of health and human services raises serious questions about his suitability for the role, particularly given his long history of vaccine skepticism and numerous personal scandals that cast doubt on his fitness to lead a crucial government department.

    11 Questions Senators Should Ask RFK Jr. This Week

    The BulwarkThe Bulwark·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. RFK Jr.’s Ex-Running Mate Threatens Primary Against Nonexistent Senator for Potentially Opposing His Nomination

    Shanahan's aggressive stance serves as a stark warning to senators that opposing Kennedy's nomination could jeopardize their political futures, revealing her determination to wield considerable influence in the political landscape.

    RFK Jr.’s Ex-Running Mate Threatens Primary Against Nonexistent Senator for Potentially Opposing His Nomination

    MEDIAiteMEDIAite·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  4. JFK's daughter says cousin RFK Jr is a 'predator,' 'willfully misinformed' and 'unqualified' to lead HHS

    Caroline Kennedy's impassioned plea against her cousin's nomination highlights a deep concern for public health, asserting that an individual who exploits personal tragedies and promotes dangerous misinformation is wholly unfit to lead the nation's health agency.

    JFK's daughter says cousin RFK Jr is a 'predator,' 'willfully misinformed' and 'unqualified' to lead HHS

    FOX NewsFOX News·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  5. RFK Jr. hearings begin

    The upcoming confirmation hearings for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. represent a significant moment of scrutiny, where not only his controversial views on vaccines but also his stances on abortion rights will be under intense examination, suggesting a contentious battle ahead regarding his leadership of the Department of Health and Human Services.

    RFK Jr. hearings begin

    The HillThe Hill·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  6. Caroline Kennedy calls her cousin, RFK, Jr., a 'predator' ahead of his confirmation hearings

    Caroline Kennedy's strong condemnation of her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., underscores her profound unease regarding his potential appointment to a pivotal role in President Trump's administration, emphasizing his lack of qualifications and the dangerous implications of his views on vaccines.

    Caroline Kennedy calls her cousin, RFK, Jr., a 'predator' ahead of his confirmation hearings

    NPRNPR·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  7. Caroline Kennedy sends letter to US senators calling RFK Jr a ‘predator’

    Caroline Kennedy's condemnation of her cousin Robert F Kennedy Jr. as a predator who exploits the anguish of parents with sick children reflects deep concern over his suitability for a pivotal health position in the government.

    Caroline Kennedy sends letter to US senators calling RFK Jr a ‘predator’

    Al JazeeraAl Jazeera·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  8. RFK Jr. Readies for HHS Confirmation Hearings

    Kennedy's potential leadership at HHS raises crucial questions about the future of public health policy in America, particularly as he aims to challenge corporate influence and advocate for what he considers science-based reform in health care.

    RFK Jr. Readies for HHS Confirmation Hearings

    Epoch TimesEpoch Times·3M
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
    This outlet favors right-wing views.
  9. Caroline Kennedy calls RFK Jr. a 'predator' and urges Senate to reject his nomination

    Caroline Kennedy's pointed rejection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s candidacy underscores the deep concern about his dangerous views and unqualified nature for such a crucial governmental role.

    Caroline Kennedy calls RFK Jr. a 'predator' and urges Senate to reject his nomination

    NBC NewsNBC News·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  10. Caroline Kennedy Blasts RFK Jr. Ahead of Confirmation Hearing: 'Addicted to Attention and Power'

    The prospect of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leading a key health agency is alarming, given his lack of qualifications and troubling history that reveals a dangerous addiction to attention and power which compromises public health.

    Caroline Kennedy Blasts RFK Jr. Ahead of Confirmation Hearing: 'Addicted to Attention and Power'

    Rolling StoneRolling Stone·3M
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Left
    This outlet favors left-wing views.
  11. RFK Jr.'s cousin says he's an attention-seeking 'predator'

    Caroline Kennedy's letter emphatically underscores the deep concerns over her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination, portraying him as a predator who has exploited family legacies for personal gain while damaging others in the process.

    RFK Jr.'s cousin says he's an attention-seeking 'predator'

    Washington ExaminerWashington Examiner·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  12. 'Despair and violence': RFK Jr. is a 'predator' says Caroline Kennedy in 'damning' video

    Caroline Kennedy's forceful condemnation of her cousin RFK Jr. as a dangerous and unqualified candidate for HHS Secretary underscores the serious implications of his anti-vaccine views and personal history, which she argues threaten the integrity of the American healthcare system.

    'Despair and violence': RFK Jr. is a 'predator' says Caroline Kennedy in 'damning' video

    AlterNetAlterNet·3M
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Left
    This outlet favors left-wing views.
  13. WATCH LIVE: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies at confirmation hearing for HHS secretary

    Kennedy's controversial views on vaccines and his plans to ban corn syrup and pesticides reflect a populist approach that resonates with some supporters but raises significant concerns, particularly among conservatives and farmers who view his nomination as a potential threat to agricultural stability and public health.

    WATCH LIVE: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies at confirmation hearing for HHS secretary

    PBS NewsHourPBS NewsHour·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  14. Caroline Kennedy calls RFK Jr. a "predator" in letter to senators a day before his confirmation hearings

    Caroline Kennedy's scathing critique portrays Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a manipulative figure whose reckless disregard for public health and exploitation of personal tragedy disqualifies him from any position of authority regarding health and human services.

    Caroline Kennedy calls RFK Jr. a "predator" in letter to senators a day before his confirmation hearings

    CBS NewsCBS News·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  15. Caroline Kennedy Calls RFK Jr. a ‘Predator’ Ahead of Hearing

    Caroline Kennedy's fervent opposition to her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination underscores her belief that he is not only unqualified for the role but also a detrimental influence on those around him, having preyed upon the vulnerable for personal gain.

    Caroline Kennedy Calls RFK Jr. a ‘Predator’ Ahead of Hearing

    New York MagazineNew York Magazine·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  16. What RFK Jr. might face in his nomination hearings this week

    Kennedy's nomination is a troubling reflection of how mistrust in public health authorities has allowed individuals with scientifically discredited views to gain significant positions of power within the federal health system.

    What RFK Jr. might face in his nomination hearings this week

    Boston HeraldBoston Herald·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  17. What to Expect from RFK Jr.’s Confirmation Hearings

    The idea that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could lead the Department of Health and Human Services is unsettling for many, as his controversial views on vaccines and public health could undermine the very foundation of science-based health policy.

    What to Expect from RFK Jr.’s Confirmation Hearings

    TIME MagazineTIME Magazine·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  18. Caroline Kennedy slams "predator" RFK Jr. on eve of confirmation hearing

    As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. navigates the waters of Senate confirmation, his attempt to redefine his stance on vaccines raises questions about his commitment to scientific consensus in public health.

    Caroline Kennedy slams "predator" RFK Jr. on eve of confirmation hearing

    AxiosAxios·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  19. Caroline Kennedy calls cousin RFK Jr a predator ahead of confirmation hearing

    Caroline Kennedy's letter starkly underscores the peril her cousin Robert F Kennedy Jr poses if granted power, framing him not just as a public health threat but also casting doubts on both his character and credibility.

    Caroline Kennedy calls cousin RFK Jr a predator ahead of confirmation hearing

    The GuardianThe Guardian·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  20. Caroline Kennedy attacks ‘predator’ RFK Jr. in scathing letter ahead of confirmation hearing

    Caroline Kennedy's fierce opposition to her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination is rooted in her belief that he poses a significant risk to public health, demonstrating a dangerous lack of relevant experience and a troubling record of vaccine misinformation that could jeopardize the well-being of vulnerable populations.

    Caroline Kennedy attacks ‘predator’ RFK Jr. in scathing letter ahead of confirmation hearing

    New York PostNew York Post·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  21. Caroline Kennedy Warns Sens That Cousin RFK Jr. a 'Predator'

    Caroline Kennedy's vehement letter against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination as health secretary highlights not only her family's long-standing commitment to public service but also exposes what she perceives as his exploitative and dangerous behavior in the realm of public health.

    Caroline Kennedy Warns Sens That Cousin RFK Jr. a 'Predator'

    NewsmaxNewsmax·3M
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
    This outlet favors right-wing views.
  22. Ahead of RFK Jr. confirmation hearings, poll shows nation divided on public health

    The growing distrust in public health officials and the implications of Robert F. Kennedy's controversial nomination reflect deepening divides within American society regarding health issues, particularly vaccinations, as misinformation continues to sway public perception.

    Ahead of RFK Jr. confirmation hearings, poll shows nation divided on public health

    CNNCNN·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  1. Associated Press
  2. The Bulwark
  3. MEDIAite
  4. FOX News
  5. The Hill
  6. NPR
  7. Al Jazeera
  8. Epoch Times
  9. NBC News
  10. Rolling Stone
  11. Washington Examiner
  12. AlterNet
  13. PBS NewsHour
  14. CBS News
  15. New York Magazine
  16. Boston Herald
  17. TIME Magazine
  18. Axios
  19. The Guardian
  20. New York Post
  21. Newsmax
  22. CNN

Updated: Jan 29th, 2025, 2:05 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prepares for Senate confirmation hearings as Health Secretary nominee, he faces intense scrutiny from both parties. Caroline Kennedy condemned him in a letter as a 'predator' unfit for the role, citing his discredited vaccine views and past substance abuse. With open concerns from Republican senators like Bill Cassidy and James Lankford, Kennedy's positions on vaccines, abortion, and health regulations are under fire. He aims to woo some Democrats and has garnered support from others, including cousin Patrick J. Kennedy. Uncertainty surrounds his potential as leader of the $1.7 trillion HHS agency.


Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

No center-leaning sources available for this story.


History

A summary of how this story has evolved over the last 24 hours.
  • 3M
  • 3M
  • 3M
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Health Secretary Nomination Faces Intense Scrutiny - Pano News