Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. showed no signs of backing down on his controversial policies even as some Republican senators used a Thursday hearing to send signs they're ready to tighten oversight.

Why it matters: Kennedy has had relatively free rein to limit COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, fire personnel and challenge current evidence-based science. But pressure from administration allies on the Hill could eventually change the calculus. • Over about three hours, an unflinching Kennedy repeatedly talked over members of the Senate Finance Committee and accused several of lying or making things up — even when presented with past statements he made.

Here's what stood out to us:

Kennedy is defiant on CDC firings

Kennedy defended last week's firing of CDC Director Susan Monar

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