Corporate Interests Target Kennedy’s HHS Confirmation As Key Vote Nears

Efforts to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as President Donald Trump’s Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary are facing resistance from corporate interests, according to Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). She claims companies profiting from unhealthy food production are working to derail Kennedy’s nomination.

Kennedy is set to testify before two Senate committees next week, with the Finance Committee taking the lead on Wednesday, followed by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee on Thursday. The finance panel will determine whether Kennedy’s nomination advances to a full Senate vote.

Luna, a supporter of Kennedy’s push for healthier food policies, warned that senators could face backlash from Trump’s voter base if they oppose the nomination. She argues that corporate lobbyists are exerting significant influence over lawmakers who may be hesitant to back Kennedy’s reform efforts.

Three GOP senators on the finance committee—Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Todd Young of Indiana and Thom Tillis of North Carolina—have yet to declare their positions. Cassidy has questioned Kennedy’s stance on vaccines, while Young’s team called his meeting with Kennedy productive. Tillis has indicated he will support Trump’s nominees but has not confirmed his vote for Kennedy.

Some senators, including Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, are known to be more willing to oppose Trump’s choices, adding further uncertainty to Kennedy’s confirmation process. A handful of Republican defections could be enough to prevent Kennedy’s approval if Democrats vote against him.

Luna has long advocated for stricter food regulations, previously introducing bills to ban harmful additives like high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes. Though her proposals have faced resistance, she believes Kennedy’s leadership at HHS could advance these efforts.

The Senate Finance Committee’s decision next week will determine whether Kennedy’s nomination moves forward for a full vote, with both parties closely watching the outcome.