Washington (AP) — President Donald Trump’s most contentious Cabinet nominees are facing a barrage of questions and criticisms during confirmation hearings.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, and Kash Patel are under scrutiny over their past statements and actions, including conspiracy theories about vaccines and secret meetings with dictators.
Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence nominee, defended her loyalty to the US and denied claims she’s a foreign asset. Her hearing offered some promising moments, such as an introduction by former Sen. Richard Burr, a Republican who previously chaired the Intelligence Committee.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services secretary nominee, faced intense questioning about his anti-vaccine views and whether he’d ban the abortion drug mifepristone. Critics accused him of being untrustworthy, while some Republicans defended his stance.
Kash Patel, the FBI nominee, emerged as a combative nominee during his hearing, denying claims that his past statements were taken out of context. His testy exchange with Sen. Amy Klobuchar highlighted the intense scrutiny he’s under.
The day also saw a reversal on federal funding for programs nationwide, which Trump’s budget pick Russ Vought was involved in. The White House quickly rescinded the freeze after public outcry.
A majority vote in the Senate is needed for confirmation, leaving little room for dissent. As Sen. Amy Klobuchar said, “It’s his own words” when it comes to Patel’s past statements.
The confirmation hearings continue, with each nominee facing unique challenges and criticisms.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-gabbard-patel-trump-confirmation-hearings-takeaways-6fed092408f8c120af8f4541d7c3c3d1