Former Vice President Mike Pence deployed financial resources Wednesday through his advocacy organization to oppose President Donald Trump’s selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for leading the Department of Health and Human Services.
Advancing American Freedom initiated digital advertisements across Washington D.C. targeting Kennedy’s past statements, including comments about vaccine safety and abortion access. The campaign features mobile displays near Capitol Hill and the upcoming March for Life rally.
Recent discussions between Kennedy and Republican senators suggest growing support despite opposition. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) reported positive interactions regarding pharmaceutical oversight and abortion policies following their December meeting.
No Senate Republicans have publicly rejected Kennedy’s nomination. The candidate requires minimal GOP support for confirmation if Democrats unite in opposition, needing to maintain all but three Republican votes.
Kennedy addressed previous Democratic positions during Capitol Hill visits, pledging to implement Trump administration policies on abortion. He met with hundreds of lawmakers while awaiting scheduling of confirmation hearings.
Public health officials expressed concerns about Kennedy’s previous statements regarding vaccines. Thousands of medical professionals signed letters warning about potential impacts on global health practices.
Pence’s organization distributed messages to senators last week urging opposition based on Kennedy’s earlier abortion stances. The group launched additional advertising highlighting various controversial statements from his past.
Trump maintained his position supporting state-level abortion decisions while highlighting Supreme Court appointments that affected national policies. Kennedy indicated personal views would not influence departmental operations.
