(NEXSTAR) – Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced intense scrutiny from lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Thursday over his vaccine policies and recent actions at the HHS.

During the hearing, Kennedy was questioned by both Democrats and Republicans about his overhaul of vaccine recommendations and the firing of the CDC director. Lawmakers expressed skepticism about his decision to replace the entire vaccine advisory panel with his own appointees, citing potential conflicts of interest.

"You're interrupting me and sir, you're a charlatan, that's what you are," said Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) during the heated exchange.

Kennedy defended his actions by stating that the United States is the "sickest country in the world" and that changes at the CDC were neces

See Full Page