Senate Republicans are preparing to question Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on his pro-choice stance after being nominated by President-elect Trump to head the Department of Health and Human Services. Kennedy’s views on abortion, particularly his belief that it should be unrestricted up until viability outside the womb, have raised concerns among Senate Republicans. Sen. James Lankford, a pro-life advocate, stated that the issue will definitely be raised during hearings, and pointed to HHS’ work under the first Trump administration on conscience protections for abortion and taking on Planned Parenthood. Other senators, such as Sen. Tommy Tuberville, also expressed their intention to question Kennedy on his stance on abortion.
Some Republican senators are wary about RFK Jr.’s nomination for HHS, but others expressed confidence that he would align with the administration’s policies. Trump administration spokesperson Katie Miller assured that Kennedy intends to support President Trump’s agenda fully. Conservative and pro-life groups have raised concerns over Kennedy’s nomination, with former Vice President Mike Pence stating that it is a departure from the pro-life record of the administration. Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America, also expressed worry about Kennedy’s views on abortion but expressed confidence in the administration to uphold pro-life values regardless of who serves as HHS secretary.
Despite some concerns raised by Senate Republicans and pro-life groups, there is confidence that Kennedy will follow the administration’s policies. Sen. Ted Budd stated his expectation for Trump’s nominees to be pro-life, while Sen. Rick Scott believes that Kennedy will do the right thing. Sen. John Kennedy emphasized the importance of asking Kennedy questions during his confirmation hearing to better understand his positions. The concerns from Senate Republicans and pro-life groups come amid speculation over how Kennedy’s stance on abortion may impact his role as head of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Sen. James Lankford has indicated that he will raise the issue of Kennedy’s pro-choice stance during the confirmation hearings. He noted that his office is compiling a list of the Trump administration’s actions on life issues through HHS, which will inform his questions for Kennedy. Other senators, such as Sen. Tommy Tuberville, also intend to ask Kennedy about his views on abortion, specifically on how far he believes abortion should be allowed to occur. The concerns raised by Senate Republicans and pro-life groups highlight the importance of understanding Kennedy’s stance on abortion and how it may influence his role at the Department of Health and Human Services.
Overall, Senate Republicans and pro-life groups have expressed concerns about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s pro-choice stance as President-elect Trump’s pick for head of the Department of Health and Human Services. While some senators are wary about Kennedy’s views on abortion, others have expressed confidence that he will align with the administration’s policies. The confirmation hearings are likely to address Kennedy’s stance on abortion, with senators planning to question him on his beliefs and how they may impact his role at HHS. Despite the concerns raised, there is optimism that the administration’s pro-life values will be upheld regardless of who serves as HHS secretary.
