President Donald Trump‘s nominees for key positions in his administration, Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have cleared crucial committee votes, setting the stage for their final confirmation on the Senate floor. Gabbard, nominated for Director of National Intelligence, and Kennedy, nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services, both faced scrutiny from Republican and Democratic lawmakers during their hearings. A few Republican senators who were perceived as doubtful in voting to confirm Tulsi Gabbard, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Kash Patel faced calls and protests with concerns over the possibility of them not voting in these candidates who received overwhelming support among Republican voters.
Gabbard’s Confirmation Process
Gabbard’s nomination advanced through the Senate Intelligence Committee with a 9-8 vote along party lines. Some Republican senators expressed concerns over her stance on government surveillance, foreign policy, and whistleblower Edward Snowden. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) initially questioned Gabbard’s refusal to label Snowden a traitor but later confirmed his support after receiving assurances that she would uphold national security policies, including the reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), who has previously broken with the GOP on high-profile nominations, continues to be a key figure to watch in the final vote. Similarly, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has voiced skepticism over Gabbard’s positions on Ukraine and Russia. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) also initially raised concerns about Gabbard’s approach to Russia. However, she later supported her nomination after she reassured him of her objectivity in intelligence matters. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah), a new member of the Senate, indicated uncertainty after Gabbard’s hearing, citing a lack of clarity in her responses on national security issues.
Kennedy’s Path to Confirmation
Kennedy’s nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services passed through the Senate Finance Committee on a 14-13 party-line vote. His views on vaccines drew scrutiny from senators, particularly Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), a physician who initially expressed hesitation due to Kennedy’s past claims linking vaccines to autism. However, Cassidy later confirmed his support after extensive discussions with Kennedy and Vice President J.D. Vance.
Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) remain undecided on Kennedy’s nomination, with both expressing concerns about his past vaccine statements. Senator McConnell, a strong advocate of vaccines and a polio survivor, has previously warned against undermining vaccine confidence and could oppose Kennedy’s confirmation.
Next Steps in the Confirmation Process
Both nominees have advanced to the full Senate, and next week will see the final votes. Each nominee can afford to lose up to three Republican votes if all Democrats oppose them. The confirmations will serve as a key test of party unity early in Trump’s administration. The Senate is also set to review additional nominees, including Pam Bondi for Attorney General, Russell Vought for Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and Eric Turner for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
