RFK Jr. faces scrutiny over measles outbreak during Senate hearings

During two Senate hearings, Kennedy denied responsibility for the surge in cases.

(NBC)- Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced intense questioning on Capitol Hill as lawmakers pressed him over the nation’s largest measles outbreak in decades.

During two Senate hearings, Kennedy denied responsibility for the surge in cases.

“I had nothing to do with the measles outbreak here,” he said.

Health officials report more than 4,000 measles cases nationwide since 2025, with over 1,700 reported this year alone. Two children in Texas have died. The outbreak comes as vaccination rates have declined across parts of the country, raising concerns among both Democrats and Republicans.

Kennedy, who previously expressed skepticism about vaccines, was pressed by lawmakers on his current stance.

“Are you taking the position… that the measles vaccine is vital to keeping American children healthy?” asked Michael Bennet.

“That’s my position. We promote the measles vaccine,” Kennedy responded.

Republican lawmakers also raised concerns about public trust and preparedness, particularly ahead of major international events. Kennedy said the administration is focused on improving outreach and response efforts. Meanwhile, Bill Cassidy warned that declining immunization rates—now below 95% in some areas—could increase the risk of outbreaks as international travel increases, including for events like the World Cup.

Kennedy said federal agencies are preparing, including setting up testing and health monitoring efforts.