GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy says RFK Jr. broke promises to him, is running HHS on 'foundation of lies'

Key Points:

• Outgoing Sen. Bill Cassidy sharply criticized HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., accusing him of running the U.S. public health system "upon a foundation of lies" and breaking promises made to secure Cassidy’s confirmation vote.
• Cassidy took issue with the CDC's vaccine website, particularly a section stating "Vaccines do not cause autism," which includes controversial disclaimers he says were not part of their agreement and misrepresent the truth.
• Cassidy stated that Kennedy has failed to restore public trust in health agencies and criticized him for withholding funding from overseas vaccination programs, which Cassidy views as crucial for U.S. soft power and global health.
• Despite his criticisms, Cassidy voted to advance and confirm Kennedy’s nomination, believing congressional oversight was preferable to Kennedy having unchecked influence as a White House health advisor.
• Kennedy has denied breaking any agreements with Cassidy, and the Department of Health and Human Services has yet to respond to Cassidy’s allegations.