Alex Azar: Extensive Qualifications And An Excellent Reputation
‘In his impressive testimony before the Finance Committee, Mr. Azar discussed his intention to confront head-on the opioid crisis that is hurting so many families across the country, including in my home state of Kentucky. He made clear that he will place an important priority on prevention, education and enforcement to halt the advance of this scourge.’
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the president’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Alex Azar:
“Yesterday, the Senate took another important step in confirming President Trump’s qualified nominees. In strong bipartisan fashion, we confirmed Jerome Powell to serve as Chairman of the Federal Reserve by a vote of 84-13. Mr. Powell was a fine choice to lead the Federal Reserve System. His public service and private-sector work alike have received accolades from across the political spectrum.
“He joined the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in 2012. And he has demonstrated an expert grasp of monetary policy and a commitment to improving the Fed’s transparency and accountability to Congress and to the public. I enjoyed meeting with him during the confirmation process and look forward to his service in this new position.
“The position of Fed chairman is integral to the health of the U.S. economy. Washington must empower the American people to create prosperity, through sound policy that gets the government out of the way of workers and job creators. Jay Powell is up to the task. I was proud to vote to confirm him yesterday.
“The Senate also voted yesterday to advance the nomination of another highly-qualified nominee – Alex Azar, who will serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
“In his impressive testimony before the Finance Committee, Mr. Azar discussed his intention to confront head-on the opioid crisis that is hurting so many families across the country, including in my home state of Kentucky. He made clear that he will place an important priority on prevention, education and enforcement to halt the advance of this scourge.
“But he recognizes we need effective, compassionate treatment options for those who are seeking recovery. And for all Americans he will work to expand access to high-quality, affordable healthcare options. His distinguished record – including prior HHS service as deputy secretary and private-sector work – shows he is the right man for the job.
“It is vital that this department be headed by a leader with Mr. Azar’s extensive qualifications and excellent reputation. He will be responsible for overseeing $1.13 trillion in department spending, supervising critical research, and administering – and reforming – programs that touch millions of Americans’ lives, such as Medicare and Medicaid. I look forward to voting soon in support of his confirmation.”
Related Issues: Health Care, Nominations
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