Cassidy’s Hesitation

Cassidy, the chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, voiced his concerns during the closing remarks at Kennedy’s second confirmation hearing of the week. He admitted he was “struggling” to back the nominee due to Kennedy’s refusal to unequivocally state that vaccines are safe and do not cause autism. “A worthy movement called ‘MAHA’,” Cassidy stated, “is aimed at improving the health of Americans, but it also questions accepted evidence, which has contributed to my hesitance regarding your nomination.”

GOP Infighting

In a display of frustration, GOP Rep. Clay Higgins from Louisiana criticized Cassidy’s comments, declaring that “RFK is going to run HHS whether you like it or not.” His remarks were aimed at rallying support for Kennedy, and he used social media to share a photo of Cassidy and Kennedy shaking hands during the confirmation hearing. Higgins emphasized the political weight of the situation, stating, “The Senate is ours,” and warned Cassidy against delaying the party’s agenda. He asserted that defeat for Kennedy would not be tolerated.

A Shift in Leadership?

With the potential for dissent among Republican Senators, Higgins mentioned the possibility of JD Vance taking charge if push comes to shove. Vance, who could serve as a tie-breaking vote should the votes split along party lines, would step into a significant leadership position. This scenario echoes past instances when Republican Senators like Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins voted contrary to party lines, creating further discord within the ranks.

“There’s zero you can do about that,” Higgins warned Cassidy. He reinforced this message by proclaiming, “We, the people, will not be stopped. We’re saving the country, and RFK is part of the formula. So, vote your conscience, senator, or don’t. Either way, we’re watching,” a statement that underscores the intensity of the current political climate among Republicans.

Threats of Primary Challenges

Further escalating the situation, GOP organizer and strategist Scott Presler indicated that failure to support Kennedy could lead to a primary challenge against Cassidy in Louisiana. He asserted, “I will personally come to Louisiana,” indicating his commitment to mobilizing support for Kennedy’s candidacy. The tensions and challenges Cassidy faces are evident, especially as local factions like the Louisiana Republican Assembly responded to Presler’s threats, expressing their readiness to activate grassroots support.

Mixed Reactions from GOP Leaders

Charlie Kirk, another prominent GOP figure and a close ally of former President Donald Trump, offered a more tempered critique of Cassidy’s position. He acknowledged the sincerity behind Cassidy’s concerns but suggested that the senator is misunderstanding the situation. “Many already don’t trust vaccine manufacturers who enjoy legal immunity for any injuries they cause,” Kirk stated, highlighting a significant sentiment among segments of the GOP base. He pointed out that Kennedy’s inquiries echo the concerns of many parents regarding vaccine safety and the motivations of pharmaceutical companies.

Finding Common Ground

Despite the chaos surrounding Cassidy’s comments, not all party leaders were critical. Tim Chapman, president of Advancing American Freedom (AAF)—a conservative nonprofit established by former Vice President Mike Pence—endorsed Cassidy’s candid approach to evaluating Kennedy’s candidacy. “It’s refreshing to see senators taking their advice and consent role seriously,” Chapman remarked. His support reflects an appreciation for thorough vetting of nominees, especially for roles that control significant taxpayer resources and influence public health policy.

Chapman emphasized the importance of thoughtful consideration for all nominees, stating, “Every senator must treat this nominee with the same gravitas that Senator Cassidy is.” This perspective highlights a divide between those who prioritize party unity versus those advocating for a more scrutinized selection process.