Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said treatment for addiction and substance abuse would be a priority if he is confirmed. “I was a heroin addict for 14 years. I’ve been 42 years in recovery,” said Kennedy, noting he goes to 12-step meetings daily.

During his Senate confirmation hearing to serve as Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. suggested antidepressant drugs may be as addictive as heroin — a claim contradicted by research. Kennedy's comment at Wednesday's hearing was one of a number of controversial claims he has made about drugs and addiction .

Kennedy Jr. struggled to defend his previous public health statements. Just a little over a week into his second term, President Donald Trump took steps to maximize his power, sparking chaos and what critics contend is a constitutional crisis as he challenges the separation of powers that have defined American government for more than 200 years.