November 18, 2024: Trump Nominates RFK Jr. as HHS Secretary. Kennedy's Potential Role, Policies, and Background. PLUS Answering Your Questions About Dismantling the Education Dept., and More.
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Deep Dive
Why did Trump nominate RFK Jr. for the HHS Secretary position?
Trump nominated RFK Jr. for his background in environmental causes and children's welfare, which aligns with the responsibilities of the HHS Secretary, including overseeing health agencies, managing Medicaid and Medicare policies, and advising on health-related legislation.
What are RFK Jr.'s key policies if confirmed as HHS Secretary?
RFK Jr. plans to focus on good testing and safety for vaccines, removing toxic chemicals from food and water, banning pharmaceutical advertising on TV, and eliminating corruption and conflicts of interest within government health agencies.
How would dismantling the Education Department affect federal funding for public schools?
Public schools would still receive funding from local, state, and federal sources, but the distribution might shift. Federal funds currently account for about 10% of school funding, with only a fraction coming from the Education Department. Funding for Title I and IDEA programs, which support at-risk students, would likely continue but might be administered by different departments.
What are the arguments for and against dismantling the Education Department?
Proponents argue for smaller government, state innovation, and reducing bureaucracy and waste. Opponents highlight the importance of centralized oversight for civil rights compliance, student loans, and federal funding conditions. Uncertainty about the impact on funding and administration is also a concern.
How might the family of Malcolm X's lawsuit against the NYPD and federal government impact civil rights history?
The lawsuit seeks $100 million and accuses the NYPD and federal government of complicity in Malcolm X's assassination. If successful, it could shed new light on the circumstances of his death and potentially hold authorities accountable for their alleged role in his murder, impacting historical narratives and legal precedents related to civil rights and law enforcement accountability.
What is the significance of Biden allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles inside Russia?
Biden's decision allows Ukraine to use U.S.-provided long-range missiles inside Russia, marking a significant escalation. This move is partly in response to Russia's enlistment of North Korean soldiers, potentially shifting the dynamics of the conflict and raising the stakes.
- Kennedy would oversee agencies like the CDC, FDA, and NIH.
- He plans to focus on good testing for vaccines and removing toxic chemicals from food and water.
- Kennedy's background includes environmental advocacy and legal work on high-profile cases.
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