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HHS Secretary Kennedy Faces Criticism After Comments on Rehab Costs and Medicaid
WASHINGTON – Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. drew sharp criticism Wednesday after testifying before Congress, with some labeling him “out of touch” for remarks he made regarding addiction treatment costs and Medicaid.
During a budget hearing, Kennedy clashed with both Democrats and Republicans over his controversial stances, including his views on vaccines. Representative Josh Harder (D-CA) questioned Kennedy about the affordability of addiction treatment, stating that the average American would face exorbitant out-of-pocket costs exceeding $286,000 to receive the same level of care Kennedy had. Kennedy responded by suggesting that “gold star rehabs” could provide similar treatment for a “tiny fraction” of that cost, between $20,000 and $40,000 per month.
The exchange intensified as Rep. Harder, whose district includes a large population of Medicaid recipients, expressed concern over proposed budget cuts that could leave over 50,000 people without health insurance.
He questioned why his constituents didn’t deserve the same access to basic healthcare provided by Medicaid that Kennedy had benefited from. Kennedy denied the accusations, defending the administration’s efforts to eliminate alleged fraud, waste, and abuse within the Medicaid system.
He echoed claims made by the Trump administration regarding Medicaid fraud and characterized it as “theft.”
Kennedy also stated that able-bodied adults who refuse to seek employment or volunteer should not receive Medicaid benefits. Harder countered this assertion, emphasizing that the majority of Medicaid recipients in his district are working individuals.
A video clip of the exchange regarding rehab costs went viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism and highlighting the disparity between Kennedy’s perception of affordability and the financial realities of most Americans. Many commentators pointed out the absurdity of Kennedy’s remarks, noting the significant financial burden such costs would represent for average individuals.