Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy wants to see remaining national security nominees confirmed quickly to keep the country safe. He agrees with President Trump Secretary of Health nominee Robert F. Kennedy on two issues. He discussed the issues in a Tuesday news conference, but he’s not saying how he’ll vote next week.

“I am looking forward to hearings to see how he answers questions,” the senator said.

Kennedy’s first hearing is scheduled today.

So far, Cassidy has voted in favor of all of Trump’s nominees including his national security picks, Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, Kristi Noem for Secretary of Homeland Security and John Ratcliffe as CIA Director.

He cautioned Democrat colleagues against slow-walking votes.

“Ironically four years ago, these same colleagues warned that objections to quick confirmation of President Biden’s national security nominees would put our country at risk,” he said.

RFK, vaccines and ultra-processed foods

Cassidy said he met with RFK a couple of weeks ago and the nominee mentioned some things about vaccines that were not true or were not the complete story, for instance Kennedy claims there were no safety trials or follow up for the Hep B vaccine.

Cassidy was familiar with Hep B vaccine studies, and was involved in the research.

“I think RFK’s strength is that he has tapped into a concern about ultra-processed food and about the need to address parents’ lack of knowledge about why their children need certain vaccinations,” he said, “issues that need to be addressed whether RFK is confirmed or not.”

People should be encouraged to have immunizations particularly if they are in a high-risk group, such as seniors 65 and older, Cassidy said, noting  a highly contagious virus is currently circulating

Unlike RFK who has backed abortion rights in the past, Cassidy continues to protect the lives of unborn children. He has received an A+ scorecard from Susan B. Anthony Pro -Life America.

In addition to addressing the topics of nominees, safety and health for his fellow Americans, Cassidy had the following assurances about Trump’s threats to get rid of FEMA. He views the President’s action as a means to review operations to encourage better service. On the topic of Trump’s freeze on federal funding, Cassidy said it will not impact Social Security, Medicare or individuals who receive federal assistance.

Three smaller cities were commended for taking advantage of federal assistance to improve infrastructure. Cassidy commended Morgan City, Baldwin and Alexandria for “punching above their weight.”

“This funding is competitive in some cases,” he said, urging civic leaders and elected officials to apply. “If we don’t get it, Texas or Arkansas will get it.”

For information on how to apply for federal grants visit Cassidy’s website.