On February 13, 2026, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a major reorganization of senior leadership to streamline operations and advance health policy priorities123.
Chris Klomp, CMS deputy administrator and Medicare director, appointed chief counselor overseeing all HHS operations while retaining prior roles; he reports directly to Kennedy1234.
HHS Chief of Staff Matt Buckham named senior counselor for operations and personnel; Ken Callahan as senior counselor for policy; both report to Klomp16.
John Brooks, CMS deputy administrator, elevated to senior counselor while keeping existing duties12.
Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill and General Counsel Mike Stuart are departing their roles but offered other administration positions; O’Neill also acting CDC head1234.
Changes aim to focus on 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, including drug pricing, dietary guidelines, food dyes ban, and healthcare affordability ahead of midterm elections1245.
Sources:
1. https://www.pharmexec.com/view/hhs-secretary-health-rfk-jr-revises-agency-leadership-team-report
2. https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2026/02/13/top-officials-hhs-promoted-kennedy-shake-up/6161771014907/
3. https://www.axios.com/2026/02/13/kennedy-rfk-hhs-staff-cuts-2026-elections
4. https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/13/hhs-leadership-changes-rfk-jr-hhs-midterm-elections/
5. https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/hhs-announces-february-shakeup-leadership
6. https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/12/rfk-jr-shakes-up-leadership-team-00779554