Full Breakdown
White House Positions HHS Counselor Chris Klomp as De Facto Overseer of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Tenure
6/12/2026, 10:59:36 PM
Appointment of Chris Klomp as HHS Chief Counselor
In February, Chris Klomp was promoted to chief counselor of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The role gives him authority over personnel and policy, effectively making him second-in-command to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Democratic senators told Politico that Klomp’s presence at hearings and briefings resembles a “babysitter” meant to keep Kennedy’s actions in check.
Context: Kennedy’s Vaccine Stance and Administrative Concerns
Kennedy, a vocal vaccine skeptic, was appointed HHS secretary despite criticism that his views clash with mainstream public-health guidance. Democrats warned that his stance could undermine the department’s credibility and hurt the GOP’s prospects in the upcoming midterm elections.
Official Statements & Responses
President Donald Trump praised Klomp as “unbelievable, a real star,” emphasizing his value to the administration. HHS responded to accusations that Kennedy is a figurehead by calling the claim “demonstrably false” and asserting that Kennedy “is actively engaged in the decisions shaping HHS.” An administration official told Politico that Klomp “doesn’t make decisions without the secretary’s sign-off.”
Criticism & Opposition
A Democratic Senate aide suggested Klomp was promoted because the White House does not trust Kennedy. A former senior HHS official warned that Klomp is attempting to fire personnel without proper oversight. A Kennedy ally described the secretary as largely a figurehead, implying Klomp functions as the department’s chief operating officer. Critics argue that Klomp’s unilateral personnel moves erode Kennedy’s authority.
Impact and Data Highlights
Klomp has negotiated 17 drug-pricing deals, selected a pro-vaccination doctor to lead the CDC over Kennedy’s anti-vaccine preference, and attended all seven congressional hearings in April. These actions shape HHS policy on vaccines and drug pricing, affect public perception of the department, and may influence the Republican Party’s standing in the upcoming midterms.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Critics claim Klomp acts without oversight, while an administration official maintains that all decisions require the secretary’s sign-off. No direct evidence has been presented regarding Kennedy’s awareness of specific personnel actions. The conflicting accounts illustrate uncertainty about the exact decision-making hierarchy within HHS currently.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Chris Klomp has been unbelievable, a real star,” — President Donald Trump, April
- “He's out of control trying to fire people,” — Former senior HHS official, Politico
- “to babysit RFK because the White House doesn't trust him” — Democratic Senate aide, Politico
- “demonstrably false” — HHS spokesperson, response to figurehead claim
What’s Next
The article does not specify any forthcoming actions or investigations regarding Klomp’s role.
