Bernie Sanders Slams RFK Jr. in Tense Senate Hearing (Video)

In a heated Senate confirmation hearing, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) took Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to task over the sale of baby onesies emblazoned with anti-vaccine slogans—a controversy that cast doubt over Kennedy’s self-proclaimed support for vaccines.

Kennedy, once a vocal figure in the anti-vaccine movement, appeared before the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday as part of his nomination process for Health and Human Services Secretary under former President Donald Trump’s second administration. But Sanders, never one to mince words, quickly steered the conversation to Kennedy’s ties to the Children’s Health Defense, a controversial group that has historically pushed vaccine skepticism.

Sanders held up blown-up images of baby onesies being sold on the organization’s website. One read, “No Vax, No Problem,” while another stated, “Unvaxxed, Unafraid.” The senator’s frustration was palpable.

“You come before this committee saying you support vaccines,” Sanders said sharply. “Yet, the very organization you founded is selling baby clothes that directly contradict that stance. These are sold for $26 apiece, and they send a dangerous message to parents.”

Kennedy, who distanced himself from the group after announcing his bid for public office, attempted to deflect responsibility. “Senator, I resigned from the board,” he responded. “I have no power over what they sell.”

Sanders wasn’t buying it. “You founded the organization. You had influence, and you still do. Do you support this?” he pressed, jabbing a finger toward the images.

Kennedy, appearing visibly uncomfortable, gave a hesitant reply. “I support vaccines. I want good science,” he said, forcing an uneasy chuckle as Sanders continued to challenge him.

The exchange underscored broader concerns about Kennedy’s stance on public health issues. Though he has attempted to reposition himself as moderate on vaccines in recent years, his past affiliations and statements continue to haunt him.

Earlier in the hearing, Sanders extracted another key commitment from Kennedy: a pledge to push for lowering prescription drug prices to align with international markets. Kennedy also broke with Trump on at least one major issue, stating that he does not believe climate change is a hoax, a position that puts him at odds with many in the administration.

The fiery back-and-forth highlighted the ideological battle at play in Kennedy’s confirmation process. While he tries to distance himself from his controversial past, Sanders made one thing clear: the record speaks for itself.

Watch below:

Bernie Sanders showcases "unvaxed" shirts sold by an organization he claims RFK Jr. runs.

It backfired.

SANDERS: You say you are pro-vaccine… just want to ask, will you have your organization pull this merchandise?

RFK JR: I am not even part of that organization. I resigned.… pic.twitter.com/PVYaK6uQ2c

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) January 29, 2025