Senate panel praises HHS candidate, grills on ACA

WASHINGTON — Sylvia Mathews Burwell, President Obama's nominee to head the Department of Health and Human Services, appears on track for confirmation after a Thursday hearing in which she was praised by Democratic and Republicans senators.  

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz, called her a friend. Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, called her "dynamic." Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., said she had a reputation for "competence," but continued, "You are going to need it."  Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., praised her, saying "I support her nomination and I will vote for her. She comes with a portfolio of experiences" that qualify her for the job.  

Burwell, now director of the Office of Management and Budget, still faced criticism by Republicans for the Affordable Care Act, which she will have to administer as HHS secretary.

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http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/05/08/senate-praises-hhs-candidate-grills-on-aca/8844123/