STATEMENT: “RFK Jr. Confirmation Threatens the Very Foundation of our Healthcare System”
Without an official response from 1199SEIU, candidates Yvonne Armstrong and Veronica Turner-Biggs—leaders of the Members First Unity slate—have released the following statement. They are determined to show all 1199 members that, under their leadership, our Union will serve as an unwavering voice in resisting the Trump administration’s attacks on our members, families, and communities.
STATEMENT: “RFK Jr. Confirmation Threatens the Very Foundation of our Healthcare System”
(New York, NY) – Today, 1199SEIU Senior Executive Vice Presidents Yvonne Armstrong and Veronica Turner- Biggs released the following statement on the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services:
“The confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services is an alarming and dangerous development for the millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid and Medicare, for healthcare workers on the front lines, and for the future of public health in this country. His long history of spreading medical disinformation, opposing life-saving vaccines, and undermining science-based policies directly threatens the very foundation of our healthcare system."
“As the nation’s largest healthcare workers’ union, representing hundreds of thousands of front line caregivers, we know firsthand what is at stake. Medicaid and Medicare are lifelines for our patients, particularly low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. We cannot and will not allow this administration to use RFK Jr.’s leadership at HHS to dismantle these critical programs, slash funding, or weaken access to care. We have fought for decades to protect and expand healthcare for all, and we are prepared to fight every step ahead to hold this administration accountable and push back against any attempt to strip people of their right to healthcare."
“And make no mistake: Our union will mobilize, organize, and use every tool at our disposal to ensure that every American—regardless of income, background, or zip code—has access to the quality care they deserve. This fight is not over. We are ready."