Congresswoman DeLauro's Fiery Condemnation of HHS Cuts Sparks National Debate

Rep. DeLauro Condemns HHS Cuts, Blasts Republican Silence: 'Petrified of the President's Scorn' Washington, D.C. – In a heated exchange during a Congressional hearing on May 14, 2025, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) launched a scathing attack on the recent budget cuts implemented by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. DeLauro argued that Kennedy Jr. lacks the authority to make such sweeping changes without Congressional approval. The cuts, she warned, will severely impact critical health programs, including cancer research and infectious disease tracking. "These are vital institutions built up over decades that protect Americans' health and the health of people around the world," DeLauro stated during the hearing. "I do not believe the American people want less cancer research, fewer people tracking infectious diseases, but that is exactly what this budget will deliver." DeLauro further criticized the actions of Kennedy Jr., Elon Musk, and President Trump, blaming them for exacerbating the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. She noted the public's widespread outrage and the numerous court orders halting the administration's actions. However, she expressed her disappointment at the silence of Republican members of Congress, stating, "Republicans in this Congress could stop the mayhem...but they remain silent, petrified of the president's scorn." The hearing underscored the deep political divisions surrounding the HHS budget cuts and the broader healthcare debate. DeLauro's impassioned plea for action serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of these controversial policy decisions.