RFK Jr. Pushes for Daughter-in-Law's CIA Role

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , a nominee for the Health and Human Services Secretary position, is reportedly lobbying for his daughter-in-law, Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, to become the deputy director of the CIA. Kennedy, who previously worked at the CIA undercover, has been critical of the agency. The role does not require Senate confirmation, making it a strategic move. President-elect Donald Trump, known for unconventional picks, has not yet filled this position. Fox Kennedy, who managed Kennedy Jr. 's 2024 presidential campaign, has a background in the CIA and wrote a controversial memoir without the agency's approval. She is married to Kennedy Jr. 's son, Robert F. Kennedy III. Other potential candidates for the deputy director role include former Trump officials Cliff Sims and Kash Patel. Trump's administration has shown a tendency to appoint loyalists and change agents. The appointment of skeptics and unorthodox figures to Trump's next administration is not unprecedented. His previous choices include former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence. Kennedy Jr. 's own nomination has sparked controversy due to his views on vaccine safety and past allegations. RFK Jr. will be meeting with senators next week to solidify his HHS secretary nomination. His focus includes improving food policy and tackling chronic diseases, which has received praise from some lawmakers. Trump has indicated that he will allow Kennedy Jr. to lead health care policy but wants to keep him away from oil-related issues.