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Congressional Hispanic Caucus Statement on the Confirmation of Mr. Xavier Becerra to serve as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services

March 18, 2021

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Xavier Becerra to serve as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Mr. Becerra was a Member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and served over two decades in the House of Representatives. CHC Chairman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) released the following statement in reaction to his confirmation:

"The Congressional Hispanic Caucus applauds the confirmation of Xavier Becerra," said Chairman Ruiz, M.D. "The son of immigrants from Mexico and the first in his family to attend college, Mr. Becerra understands the unique challenges facing many Hispanic and immigrant communities in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Becerra has spent his career fighting to reduce health disparities and was instrumental in the enactment of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). He is a dedicated public servant who will prioritize health care access and equity. Mr. Becerra has the experience and expertise needed to help end the COVID-19 pandemic, build public trust about the COVID-19 vaccine, and help improve our healthcare system and lower healthcare costs."

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), founded in December 1976, is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHC is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories.