Pence Undercuts Trump By Campaigning Against RFK Jr. Nomination

Mike Pence is once again clashing with President Donald Trump by urging Republican senators to reject Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Pence’s organization, Advancing American Freedom (AAF), is actively pressuring lawmakers to vote against Kennedy, reigniting concerns about Pence’s loyalty to the conservative movement.

AAF’s letter, signed by Tim Chapman and Marc Short, accuses Kennedy of holding pro-abortion views that conflict with the conservative platform. Despite Kennedy’s recent assurances that he will enforce Trump’s pro-life policies at HHS, Pence’s group claims Kennedy cannot be trusted to make pro-life decisions on issues like abortion funding and regulatory policy.

Kennedy has worked to earn the support of Republican senators. In meetings with Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), Kennedy committed to reinstating the Mexico City policy and stopping taxpayer dollars from funding abortions. He also promised to reverse Biden-era rules that threaten religious freedom.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) defended Kennedy’s nomination, highlighting that Kennedy is committed to carrying out Trump’s policies even if they differ from his own views. Mullin believes Kennedy’s loyalty to Trump’s agenda makes him the best choice for the role.

Pence’s campaign against Kennedy has sparked outrage among conservatives who view it as an attack on Trump’s leadership. Natalie Winters, a conservative commentator, criticized Pence for standing in the way of Trump’s efforts to restore pro-life policies.

As the Senate prepares for Kennedy’s confirmation hearing, Pence’s opposition could deepen divisions within the Republican Party. If GOP senators follow Pence’s lead, it could block Trump from advancing his pro-life agenda and weaken his administration before it begins.