Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) argued Tuesday afternoon on CNN that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is eminently qualified to serve as President-elect Donald Trump's secretary of Health and Human Services — despite his beliefs in debunked conspiracy theories about vaccines — partly because he's physically fit for his age.
Zinke previously served as Trump's interior secretary before being elected to Congress and was forced to resign in disgrace over a series of ethics scandals over how he used federal funds for personal benefit.
"First off, vaccines, because that is a very big issue," said CNN anchor Brianna Keilar, referencing Kennedy being forced to backtrack after reporting that one of his close advisers tried to get the polio vaccine's approval rescinded. "And you're seeing that now on both sides of the aisle. Do you have concerns about RFK Jr. when it comes to vaccines?"
"No, I don't, because look, he's seven[ty] years old, he does pull-ups," said Zinke. "You know I'm a former SEAL, right? He obviously is doing something right. And you know, I think our medical—"
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"What does that have to do with vaccines?" Keilar replied with confusion. "With all due respect."
"But you look at health care," Zinke continued. "All right. What he's focusing on some important things. How about nutrition? How about start earlier? The vaccinations, I'm glad he backed off ... polio vaccination is a proven science. It's been around a long time. You know, our founding fathers had vaccinations. You know, smallpox. So, you — looking forward, what I like about Kennedy, though, is let's shake it up. Let's talk about nutrition earlier. Let's talk about, you know, additives that may do harm. Let's talk about the pharmaceuticals. Let's talk about shaking up health care."
"I want good health care," he added. "You know, some on the other side want free health care. I don't think free health care is as important as good health care. So if he shakes it up a little, I'm good with it."
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