Top Republican 'struggling' with RFK Jr.'s nomination over Kennedy's vaccine views

Kennedy began his opening statement by taking a moment to express condolences after the plane crash in Washington on Wednesday night.

"Cheryl and I were heartbroken last night to learn of the tragic accident that took so many of our fellow Americans, including our service members," Kennedy said.

He said they were in an apartment where we were able to see the rescue operations taking place. He also directly addressed lawmakers on the panel whose states are impacted.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, of Vermont, started his opening statement by congratulating Kennedy for his slogan, “Make America Healthy Again,” and for his decision to tackle chronic disease.

He then pivoted to asking Kennedy if he would work to lower the cost of prescription drugs and guaranteed family leave if confirmed to lead HHS.

"There are women today who are having babies, that they've got to go back to work in a week or two because they have no guaranteed paid family and medical leave. How do you have a healthy country when women are forced to go back to work?" Sanders asked.

Sanders also asked Kennedy if he would help fight for a higher minimum wage and tackle climate change.

Chairman Bill Cassidy, a Republican, kicked off the hearing by saying he agrees with Kennedy's view on the need to tackle ultra-processed food and its impact on Americans' health. But he quickly admitted he has some concerns about his nomination.

"It's no secret I have some reservations about your past positions on vaccines and COVID issues," the senator said.

Cassidy spoke at length about his experience as a physician, and openly questioned if Americans will trust Kennedy given his past comments undermining vaccines. He asked Kennedy directly: "What will you tell the American mother? Will you tell her to vaccinate her child or not?"

Kennedy has a prolific history of anti-vaccine comments, including false claims linking them to autism. But as he seeks to lead HHS, he's shifting his stance.

He told lawmakers on Wednesday he's not "anti-vaccine" but rather "pro-safety." He also pledged not to do anything to discourage Americans from taking the measles or polio vaccine, despite openly questioning those immunizations in the past.

Kennedy is likely to continue to try to distance himself from some of his more controversial claims during today's hearing as he seeks out 51 yes votes on his nomination.