Former Vice President Mike Pence’s organization, Advancing American Freedom, is intensifying efforts to block Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK Jr.) nomination as Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary under President Donald Trump. Pence opposes RFK Jr. due to his past support for abortion, despite Kennedy’s recent overtures to pro-life leaders. In a letter to senators, the group argued that an HHS Secretary must firmly protect unborn children, expressing skepticism about Kennedy’s commitment. This is Pence’s second formal attempt to derail Kennedy’s confirmation.

Kennedy, initially a 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, previously supported abortion restrictions but later aligned with Roe v. Wade principles. He has assured Republicans he will enforce Trump’s anti-abortion policies, regardless of personal views. GOP senators, largely supportive after meeting him, seem unconcerned about his past statements.

Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance urged Senate Republicans to back Trump’s nominees, including Kennedy, Kash Patel (FBI), and Tulsi Gabbard (DNI), despite potential controversies. Vance emphasized that Trump’s choices reflect his mandate and coalition, urging senators not to block nominees over single policy disagreements.