On the recordJune 5, 2014
today we consider the nomination of Sylvia Mathews Burwell to be the next Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Ms. Burwell currently serves as Director of the Office of Management and Budget, a position to which she was confirmed by a vote of 96-0 in April 2013. Through a dynamic career in both public service and private sector leadership, she has proven herself as an effective manager with experience and skill in leading a wide range of organizations. During her confirmation hearing in the HELP Committee last month, she garnered strong support from Members on both sides of the aisle. Clearly, I am not alone in concluding that she is a deeply impressive nominee and is eminently qualified to serve as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services. The United States faces serious public health challenges, many of which require urgent answers. Very often, the entire world looks to HHS for leadership. Just last month, this country confronted the first ever incident of MERS, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, within our borders. HHS responded quickly to educate the public, investigate the situation, and develop a path forward. We will count on our next Secretary for exactly that kind of informed, decisive action in the face of future challenges and crises, and to provide a steady hand overseeing an incredible range of activities across the Department.…
