Former Vice President Mike Pence’s advocacy organization, Advancing American Freedom, has publicly urged Senate Republicans to reject President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). The primary reason cited for this opposition is Kennedy’s stance on abortion.
Pence, through his organization, emphasized that Kennedy’s previous support for abortion rights is a significant deviation from the pro-life legacy established during the Trump-Pence administration. In a statement, Pence highlighted that, under their leadership, HHS made decisions daily that either supported or detracted from the sanctity of life. He argued that confirming Kennedy would be “deeply concerning” to millions of pro-life Americans who have traditionally supported Republican nominees.
Kennedy, known for his skepticism regarding vaccines and his environmental activism, had previously expressed a complex stance on abortion. His positions have included support for a woman’s right to choose, advocating for codifying Roe v. Wade into law, and ensuring access to medical abortion pills.
The statement from Advancing American Freedom also pointed out that despite Kennedy’s recent attempts to reassure pro-life leaders, there remains little confidence in his commitment to pro-life policies at HHS. Pence’s group specifically mentioned the daily administrative decisions at HHS concerning issues like federal funding for Planned Parenthood, regulations on abortion pills, and insurance coverage for abortions, all of which would be pivotal under Kennedy’s potential leadership.
With the Senate gearing up for confirmation hearings, Pence’s call for rejection highlights a significant rift within the Republican Party, especially given Trump’s choice to nominate a figure known for his controversial views on vaccines. This nomination has already sparked a broad spectrum of reactions, with public health experts and Democrats expressing alarm, while some conservative groups have been more ambivalent or supportive, focusing on Kennedy’s critique of “corporate capture” in health agencies.
The opposition from Pence, who has been critical of Trump since their time in office together, underscores his resentment toward his former boss. His failed presidential run was embarrassing and he’s been all but excommunicated from Republican politics ever since.
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