Based on the information available (see sources below), here’s why these particular Congress members might be critical to call in support of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK Jr.) nomination for Health and Human Services Secretary:
Lisa Murkowski (AK-R)
(202) 224-6665
Mitch McConnell (KY-R)
(202) 224-2541
Thom Tillis (NC-R)
(202) 224-6342
Bill Cassidy (LA-R)
(202) 224-5824
Cory Booker (NJ-D)
(202) 224-3224
Catherine Cortez Masto (NV-D)
(202) 224-3542
Purports why:
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK):
Moderate Stance: Murkowski is known for her moderate views and has occasionally voted against her party, especially when she feels it’s in the best interest of her state or when nominees are highly controversial. Her vote could be pivotal in a closely divided Senate.
Mitch McConnell (R-KY):
Leadership Role: As Senate Minority Leader, McConnell’s support or opposition can significantly sway Republican votes. His endorsement could help unify Republican support for RFK Jr., or his opposition could make confirmation more challenging. His strategic position means he’s crucial for both rallying support and navigating Senate procedures.
Thom Tillis (NC-R):
Swing Vote Potential: Tillis has shown he can be a swing vote in key decisions, particularly if he perceives a nominee to have positive attributes for his state or if he sees a broader political benefit. His support could be crucial in a tight vote, especially given his comments post-hearing indicating a “presumptive lean yes” position on RFK Jr.
Bill Cassidy (R-LA):
Direct Influence: As the chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Cassidy has a direct say in RFK Jr.’s confirmation process. His medical background also makes him uniquely positioned to evaluate RFK Jr.’s qualifications and views on health policy, particularly vaccines. His support could influence other senators on the committee and in the broader Senate.
Cory Booker (D-NJ):
Bipartisan Appeal: There’s mention that Booker might consider voting yes for RFK Jr., possibly due to shared interests in critiquing aspects of the food industry. His support would be significant as a Democrat, potentially attracting more bipartisan backing or at least reducing opposition within his party.
Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV):
Potential Influence on Democrats: Although less is known about her specific stance on RFK Jr., as a Democratic senator, her support or even neutrality could help in garnering more Democratic votes or reducing opposition, especially if RFK Jr.’s positions align with some Democratic priorities on health and environmental issues.
These senators are critical because:
Their votes or influence could tip the balance in a Senate where the margins are slim.
They represent a mix of political alignments, from influential GOP leaders to potentially persuadable Democrats, offering a chance for bipartisan support.
Their committee roles or personal backgrounds (like Cassidy’s medical expertise) give them additional leverage or insight into the nomination process.
In a confirmation process, every vote counts, and these senators might either be persuadable or have significant sway over others due to their positions or historical voting patterns.
Calling these senators could be seen as a strategy to either secure their support, persuade them to be less opposed, or at least ensure they do not publicly oppose RFK Jr.’s nomination, which could influence the broader Senate’s decision.
Shanahan, N. (2025, January 29). Billionaire Nicole Shanahan will fund primary challengers for 13 senators who don’t support RFK Jr. Free Republic.
Great America News Desk. (2025, January 29). Billionaire threatens to primary lawmakers who vote against RFK Jr. confirmation. Great America News Desk.
Kew, B. (2025, January 29). Billionaire philanthropist Nicole Shanahan puts Senate on notice — Vote to confirm RFK Jr. or I will ‘personally fund’ primary challenges. The Gateway Pundit.
Axios. (2024, November 26). Key senators to watch in the Trump Cabinet nominee fights. NBC News.
Boing Boing. (2025, January 29). Billionaire Nicole Shanahan threatens GOP senators by name: vote for RFK Jr. or “I won’t play nice” (video). Boing Boing.
Revolver News. (2025, January 29). Billionaire Nicole Shanahan will fund primary challengers for 13 senators who don’t support RFK Jr… Revolver News.
Business Insider. (2025, January 29). Nicole Shanahan says she’ll ‘personally fund’ primary challengers against senators who don’t vote for RFK Jr. Business Insider.
Yahoo News. (2025, January 29). RFK Jr.’s ex–running mate pulls an Elon Musk over his nomination. Yahoo.
