Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider HHS Nominations

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of James O'Neill to be Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Gary Andres to be an Assistant Secretary of HHS.

As prepared for delivery:

“We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Jim O’Neill, who is nominated to serve as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Gary Andres, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Legislation at HHS.

“The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to make remarks on the nominees.  We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote. 

“During his hearing, Mr. O’Neill discussed his plan to work closely with Secretary Kennedy to improve America’s health care system.  Given his previous service at the Department and depth of management experience in the private sector, he is uniquely qualified to enact positive change at HHS.  If confirmed as Deputy Secretary, Mr. O’Neill will have the opportunity to implement reforms in each division of the Department. 

“As a veteran of Capitol Hill, Mr. Andres knows how to implement a successful legislative agenda and will be a valuable partner to Congress at HHS.  I was also encouraged to hear Mr. Andres’ commitment to prioritizing timeliness in responding to questions from members. 

“I will be voting in favor of both nominations and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same.”

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