Dr. Monica Bertagnolli's nomination to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has moved forward, with the HELP committee voting 15 in her favor and six against. Sen. Bernie Sanders joined five Republicans in voting against her. Sanders cited concerns about her readiness to take on drug companies and the healthcare industry as his reason for voting against her. Despite his opposition, Bertagnolli is expected to receive a vote in the Senate committee this week. The nomination process has been stalled for months due to Sanders' insistence on addressing high drug prices before moving forward with Bertagnolli's nomination. The markup on her nomination is set for Wednesday, and a vote is expected to follow, though it may not be unanimous. If confirmed, Bertagnolli would lead the NIH at a time of increased scrutiny of public health agencies. Senators questioned her on a range of issues, including maternal health, diabetes, opioid addiction, and mental health crises, during her confirmation hearing. Click here for article.
Sanders announced he would vote against Bertagnolli's confirmation due to concerns about her ability to confront the influence of drug companies and the healthcare industry.
The markup on Bertagnolli's nomination is scheduled for Wednesday, with a vote expected to follow. Despite Sanders' opposition, she may still be confirmed.
The nomination process has been delayed for months due to Sanders' push for action on high drug prices.
Senators questioned Bertagnolli on various issues, including maternal health, diabetes, opioid addiction, and mental health crises, during her confirmation hearing.
If confirmed, Bertagnolli would be the first woman to lead the NIH since 1993.
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