Trump, a Republican, selected Kennedy in November, shortly after he won the 2024 presidential election, saying Kennedy would “end the Chronic Disease epidemic” and “Make America Great and Healthy Again!” As one of the most prominent anti-vaccine activists in the world, Kennedy’s nomination immediately alarmed some public health officials.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is President Trump’s choice to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. On Wednesday, he has his first confirmation meeting in front of senators. On Thursday, he will go before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.