Cape News

On February 13, 2025, Chairman Jason Smith of the Ways and Means Committee issued a statement following the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services by the United States Senate.

Chairman Smith expressed his congratulations to Kennedy, highlighting the extensive jurisdiction of the Department of Health and Human Services over the U.S. healthcare system. "I congratulate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on his confirmation as Secretary of Health and Human Services," Smith stated. He emphasized that HHS oversees numerous programs impacting millions of Americans' health and wellbeing.

Smith conveyed confidence in Kennedy's commitment to providing quality, affordable care for Americans in need and advancing President Trump's health agenda. "I have no doubt Secretary Kennedy will be a steadfast champion for those Americans in need of access to quality, affordable care and fight every day to restore the gold standard science of America’s public health agencies and implement President Trump’s agenda to Make America Healthy Again," he said.

He also referenced the mandate from voters for significant reforms within the healthcare system: "Seventy-seven million Americans voted for serious reform in November, and our health care system is no exception." Smith mentioned ongoing efforts by Ways and Means to combat chronic disease, ensure rural healthcare access, reduce healthcare costs, and eliminate waste within Medicare and Medicaid while safeguarding benefits for current beneficiaries.

Smith expressed eagerness to collaborate with Secretary Kennedy on these initiatives: "Ways and Means has been a leader in fighting for chronic disease prevention, and I look forward to working with Secretary Kennedy to end the chronic disease epidemic gripping our nation."