NWLC Statement on Confirmation of RFK Jr. to Lead HHS 

Washington, DC (Feb. 13) – The Senate today confirmed Robert F. Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. 

During his confirmation process, the National Women’s Law Center led efforts with 57 other reproductive rights, health, and justice organizations raising concerns regarding Kennedy’s nomination.  

Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center, released the following statement after the vote:

“RFK Jr.’s confirmation to lead our public health system is a disgrace. Senate Republicans have a duty to protect Americans, but instead, they installed a man who doesn’t understand the fundamentals of medical science, health equity or even the health care systems – including Medicaid and Medicare – he is set to lead. Placing him in charge of HHS will put all of us at risk, especially women and children in underserved communities. 

“We have witnessed how RFK Jr. clings to conspiracy theories, yet he’s quick to cave on abortion rights after feeling the pressure from Donald Trump. Once ‘pro-choice,’ he now pledges to restrict abortion pills and reinstate anti-abortion policies at HHS. 

“It’s clear that Kennedy cannot be trusted to protect our fundamental freedoms, nor our country’s health. He lacks the integrity, experience and fortitude necessary to be the nation’s chief public health officer. That is why the Law Center will join efforts to fight back against RFK’s anti-science, anti-abortion agenda and hold him accountable.”

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