No Republicans have said publicly they would oppose Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to run Health and Human Services. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.), a polio survivor, and centrist Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska are considered possible defectors.

Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana quietly conducted a revealing cross-examination of Kennedy on Wednesday, ahead of the hearing on Thursday that he will lead. He could be a key vote to watch.