McConnell Condemns RFK Jr.'s Confirmation: 'I Will Not Condone The Re-litigation of Proven Cures'

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., one of President Donald Trump's most controversial Cabinet nominees, was confirmed by the Senate as the new U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Longtime Republican and childhood polio survivor, U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) was the only Republican to join Democrats in voting against him.

McConnell released a statement following Kennedy's confirmation, slamming the environmental lawyer for his record "of trafficking in dangerous conspiracy theories and eroding trust in public health institutions," adding that he "failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America's largest health agency."

The Kentucky Republican ended his statement on a hopeful note, urging RFK Jr. not to "sow further doubt and division, but to restore trust in our public health institutions."

Full statement below:

"I'm a survivor of childhood polio. In my lifetime, I've watched vaccines save millions of lives from devastating diseases across America and around the world. I will not condone the re-litigation of proven cures, and neither will millions of Americans who credit their survival and quality of life to scientific miracles.

"Individuals, parents, and families have a right to push for a healthier nation and demand the best possible scientific guidance on preventing and treating illness. But a record of trafficking in dangerous conspiracy theories and eroding trust in public health institutions does not entitle Mr. Kennedy to lead these important efforts.

"This administration—led by the same president who delivered a medical miracle with Project Warp Speed—deserves a leader who is willing to acknowledge without qualification the efficacy of life-saving vaccines and who can demonstrate an understanding of basic elements of the U.S. healthcare system. Mr. Kennedy failed to prove he is the best possible person to lead America's largest health agency. As he takes office, I sincerely hope Mr. Kennedy will choose not to sow further doubt and division but to restore trust in our public health institutions."