Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has expressed partial agreement with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In an interview with CBS News, Sanders said Kennedy was “exactly correct” in his recent critique of the food industry, but he also criticized Kennedy for holding what Sanders described as “very wrong” views on other public health issues.
Kennedy, an outspoken figure known for his controversial stances on vaccines and environmental issues, recently called for sweeping reforms in the food industry, emphasizing the dangers of processed foods, lax regulations, and the role of major corporations in shaping dietary habits. Sanders echoed these sentiments, stating that the food industry prioritizes profits over public health, which has contributed to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other preventable diseases.
“RFK Jr. is exactly correct about the need to address the greed and negligence in the food industry,” Sanders said. “We cannot allow corporations to continue profiting at the expense of the American people’s health.”
However, Sanders was quick to distance himself from some of Kennedy’s other views, particularly his long-standing skepticism of vaccines. While Kennedy has sought to focus on broader health and wellness issues during his nomination process, his past comments on vaccine safety remain a point of contention. Sanders, a strong advocate for public health and science-based policies, emphasized the importance of vaccines in preventing disease and saving lives.
Kennedy’s nomination has sparked intense debate in Washington. Supporters praise his willingness to challenge powerful industries and advocate for reforms in healthcare and food systems, while critics question his ability to lead a department responsible for overseeing public health policies and programs.
As the Senate prepares for Kennedy’s confirmation hearings, Sanders’ comments highlight the nuanced reactions to the nomination. While Kennedy’s critique of corporate influence resonates with progressives, his controversial positions on other health issues have drawn skepticism from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
The nomination comes at a critical time for the Department of Health and Human Services, which will play a central role in addressing issues such as healthcare access, public health crises, and food system reforms under the Trump administration. Kennedy has pledged to prioritize transparency, regulatory reform, and the health of the American people if confirmed.
Sanders’ remarks reflect a broader conversation about the balance between challenging entrenched systems and ensuring evidence-based policymaking in public health. As Kennedy’s nomination advances, these debates are likely to shape both his confirmation process and the future direction of the HHS.
