Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The director of Maine Families for Vaccines, Caitlin Gilmet, said states should set their own vaccine laws.

Maine's two senators have voted opposite of one another on more than a half-dozen of President Trump's Cabinet picks. The latest, vaccine-skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., will now lead the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Republican said she received several assurances from Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on vaccines, although many public health organizations strongly opposed his nomination because of his legacy of questioning the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

Representatives from the state legislature's Health and Human Services Committee joined the advocacy group Protect Our Care Maine in urging the state's U.S. Senators to oppose Robert F. Kennedy Junior's nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Medical professionals and activists spoke at Portland City Hall today to protest Robert F Kennedy Jr.'s nomination as Department of Health and Human Services secretary.

The independent presidential candidate had announced last week that he was suspending his campaign, although he planned to stay on the ballot in some states.

Kennedy has until next Tuesday to ask to have his name taken off of Maine's ballot, although the independent suggested Friday that he might stay on the ballot in less-competitive states.

The environmental attorney and anti-vaccination activist is hoping to pick up support from disenchanted Democrats and Republicans as well as independents.