Senate confirms Xavier Becerra to lead HHS

Today the U.S. Senate confirmed Xavier Becerra to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, by a narrow vote of 50-49.

Senator Susan Collins of Maine joined her Democratic colleagues in supporting the California attorney general's confirmation. Democratic Senator Mazie Hirono of Hawaii did not vote. 

Becerra is the first Latino to lead HHS. He will oversee all the federal health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration, and will be responsible for carrying out the Biden administration's health agenda.

National Community Pharmacists Association CEO Doug Hoey issued the following statement congratulating Becerra on his confirmation:

“While serving as the attorney general of California, Xavier Becerra stood up for independent pharmacy and its patients, supporting states’ ability to fight ‘against pharmaceutical middlemen who manipulate drug prices and the choice of prescription drugs that patients can access in the market. We are grateful for his support and are eager to work with him and others in the Biden administration on advancing PBM reforms at the federal level, promoting patient access to affordable prescription drugs, and empowering pharmacists to fully engage in the fight against the coronavirus and other patient health concerns.”