On October 19, 2026, several Democratic senators sent a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. requesting the reversal of a policy that allows HHS lawyers to represent unaccompanied immigrant children in court. They argue this creates a conflict of interest and undermines the children's rights, as independent legal counsel is crucial for their protection. The senators are calling for the restoration of independent attorneys to ensure that the children's best interests are prioritized.
Key facts
- Democratic senators sent a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on October 19, 2026.
- The new policy allows HHS lawyers to represent unaccompanied minors in court.
- Senators argue this creates a conflict of interest due to HHS's role in detaining children.
- Federal law entitles unaccompanied minors to independent legal representation.
- The senators demand the restoration of independent counsel for unaccompanied minors.
A short AI summary in our own words. The reporting belongs to Mother Jones; we don't reproduce it.