What You Should Know:
– Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. today was sworn in as the 26th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in the Oval Office by Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Neil Gorsuch.
– As Secretary, Kennedy will oversee a vast department with a nearly $2 trillion budget, responsible for protecting the health and well-being of all Americans.
Education and Experience
Kennedy, the son of former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, has a long history of public service. He is a renowned environmental attorney and advocate, having fought tirelessly to protect clean water and address environmental pollution. Kennedy holds degrees from Harvard University, the London School of Economics, the University of Virginia Law School, and Pace University School of Law.
His extensive education and experience in law, environmental policy, and public health make him well-suited to lead HHS.
HHS encompasses several key agencies, including:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): Conducts and supports biomedical research.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Protects public health and safety through disease control and prevention.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Ensures the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, and medical devices.
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS): Administers Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program
“Thank you, President Trump, for your leadership, your confidence in me, and your deep concern for the health of the American people,” Secretary Kennedy said. “You have truly heard the calls of the millions of mothers who simply want the tools – and the truth – so they can make informed decisions for their children.”
“I have prayed each morning for the past two decades for God to put me in a position to solve the childhood chronic disease epidemic,” Kennedy continued, “and now, thanks to you Mr. President, we will make this promise a reality.”
