Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

At a glance

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is the HHS secretary and an attorney whose earlier career focused on environmental litigation, advocacy organizations and writing.

Summary sources: [1] [2]

Career and documented accomplishments

• Began working as an attorney for Riverkeeper in 1985, with a focus on pollution and environmental protection. [1]
• Co-founded the Waterkeeper Alliance and served as its president for 21 years, according to his HHS biography. [1]
• Co-founded Children's Health Defense and served as its chairman and chief litigation counsel. [1] [2]
• Authored books including Crimes Against Nature and the 2018 autobiography American Values: Lessons I Learned from My Family. [2]
• Graduated from Harvard, earned his law degree at the University of Virginia and holds a master's degree in environmental law from Pace. [2]

Role and nomination context

• HHS records his swearing-in as its 26th secretary on February 13, 2025. The department's portfolio includes NIH, CDC, FDA and CMS. [2]

Sources and review date

Career and role sources reviewed Oct 14, 2026. These sources may describe developments beyond the nomination snapshot; each nomination entry retains its recorded date and outcome.

1. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. secretary biography

   U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.

2. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. sworn in as 26th HHS secretary, February 13, 2025

   U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.