WASHINGTON, (WCAX) – President Trump’s pick for FBI director is now one step closer to the job.
Kash Patel was advanced from the Senate Judiciary Committee despite concerns from democrats that he’s blindly loyal to President Trump and could target people he disagrees with.
Vermont senator Peter Welch was among the dissenting votes. “I’m voting against Mr. Patel because he is clearly an instrument in that effort to continue eroding the precepts of the Constitution on the separation of powers my colleagues,” said Sen. Welch.
A final confirmation for Patel is expected next week.
While Patel waits for final approval, another controversial nominee gets sworn in.
Robert F. Kennedy Junior was approved by the Senate to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.
He’s been vocally suspicious of vaccines, fluoride, and other health practices supported by the medical community.
Senator Welch was outspoken about his no-vote. “The bottom line here for me, on the question of any nominee, is character, competence, and priorities. And on all three of these, I come up short with respect to Mr. Kennedy. Aside from the fact that we could better, it’s hard, in many ways, to see how we could do worse,” said Welch.
The 52 to 48 vote fell along party lines except for former Senate Majority leader and polio survivor Mitch McConnell who was the only republican voting “no.”
