President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the position of secretary of Health and Human Services, as per sources close to the situation. This potential appointment is part of Trump's pattern of selecting controversial figures for key roles, which will likely face scrutiny during the confirmation process by Senate Republicans.
According to a source familiar with the matter, Trump has formally extended the offer to Kennedy, and an official announcement could be imminent, possibly even today.
Transition spokesperson Karoline Leavitt commented on the situation, stating, 'Certainly the president wants to find a place for RFK Jr.' However, she deferred to President Trump for the specific details of Kennedy's role.
Interestingly, just days before the election, Trump's transition co-chair Howard Lutnick had indicated that Kennedy was not being considered for a position at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). When asked if Kennedy would be in charge of HHS, Lutnick emphatically responded in the negative.
This initial response caused a stir within Trump's inner circle, leading to Trump clarifying to Kennedy that he would have the final say on all decisions.