News Release

“Seniors can rightly celebrate today’s Senate confirmation of California attorney general Xavier Becerra to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Few cabinet positions have as much impact on older Americans’ health and well-being as the Secretary of HHS, which oversees the administration of Medicare, Medicaid, and Older Americans Act programs. Throughout his long and distinguished career in public service, Xavier Becerra has demonstrated a commitment to older Americans’ health care. As a Congressman, he helped secure passage of the Affordable Care Act and later defended it in court. He knows the plight of those who lack access to affordable health care coverage and understands the government’s fundamental responsibility in this area. As HHS Secretary, he can direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to continue moving away from destructive Trump era policies, toward President Biden’s fairer and more expansive vision of both programs — and advocate for that vision with the Congress.

As the first Latino HHS Secretary, Xavier Becerra brings much-needed perspective and life experience to the job, as an ever-diversifying country moves toward a more equitable health care system for all. We applaud the Democratic Senators who unanimously voted to confirm him today, and Senator Susan Collins for putting party politics aside to cast her vote for responsive, informed leadership at HHS. Attorney General Becerra’s experience as a legislator and executive leaves little doubt about his ability to help the Biden Administration successfully guide the country out of the COVID pandemic — and into a stronger era of health and human services delivery for all Americans.” – Max Richtman, President & CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare

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The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff.  The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.

Media Inquiries to: 

Pamela Causey 202-216-8378
Walter Gottlieb 202-276-9089