The relationship with Russia, Syria's former dictator Bashar al-Assad, and whistleblower Edward Snowden, who was accused of espionage, was in focus when Tulsi Gabbard, nominated to become national intelligence chief, was grilled by the Senate Intelligence Committee.
The former Democratic representative from Hawaii distanced herself from several of her previous statements regarding the above-mentioned issues.
The hottest topic was the question of Snowden, which both Democratic and Republican lawmakers pressed her on, according to American media. Gabbard refused to answer whether she considers Snowden, who leaked extensive material about the US intelligence service, a traitor or not.
For Robert F Kennedy, who was nominated as Health Minister, it was the second day in a row that he was questioned in the Senate. Like Wednesday's grilling, much focus was again on his stance on vaccines and how he previously spread conspiracy theories. He repeated that he is not a vaccine opponent.
Kennedy also hinted, according to CNN, that he would support removing the abortion drug mifepristone from the market if Trump wanted to – despite the drug, which is used in abortions worldwide, being safe and effective.
President Donald Trump's choice for FBI chief, Kash Patel, testified that he believes the Qanon movement consists of a baseless conspiracy theory, although he previously praised the group.
Trump loyalist Patel also backtracked from previous statements about "enemies" in Washington, and said that he will not use his influence to take revenge on political opponents.
