Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pleaded guilty in 1984 to possessing heroin on an airplane, a few months after authorities found a small amount of heroin in his luggage as he traveled from Minneapolis to Rapid City,

During his Senate confirmation hearing to serve as Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. suggested antidepressant drugs may be as addictive as heroin — a claim contradicted by research. Kennedy's comment at Wednesday's hearing was one of a number of controversial claims he has made about drugs and addiction .

Kennedy Jr. struggled to defend his previous public health statements. Just a little over a week into his second term, President Donald Trump took steps to maximize his power, sparking chaos and what critics contend is a constitutional crisis as he challenges the separation of powers that have defined American government for more than 200 years.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said treatment for addiction and substance abuse would be a priority if he is confirmed. “I was a heroin addict for 14 years. I’ve been 42 years in recovery,” said Kennedy, noting he goes to 12-step meetings daily.