Public statements, media interviews, and Senate records

Trump Defends RFK Jr. as McConnell Warns Over Polio Vaccine Revocation Effort

Dec 16, 2024, 08:44 PM

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, is facing resistance in the GOP-controlled Senate due to his controversial views on vaccines. Reports indicate that his lawyer, Aaron Siri, petitioned the FDA to revoke approval of the polio vaccine, sparking warnings from Republican leader Mitch McConnell. Trump defended his nominee, stating, "We aren't banning the polio vaccine. It's not going anywhere," and described RFK Jr. as "much less radical than you would think." Kennedy has begun meeting with senators to address concerns, planning to meet with 25 GOP senators. After meetings, he described them as "very productive" and affirmed his support for the polio vaccine, stating, "I support it." Senators Rick Scott and Markwayne Mullin have expressed support for his nomination after meeting with him.