Bernie Sanders Blocks Fast-Track Pediatric Cancer Bill, Forcing Senate Delay

Bernie Sanders’ Objection Stalls Senate Vote on Pediatric Cancer Drug Bill.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) blocked a fast-track Senate move this week to pass the Mikaelas Naylon Give Kids a Chance Act, legislation supporters say would expand access to advanced pediatric cancer drug treatments and speed research for children facing rare cancers.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) asked for a unanimous consent to pass the House-approved bill, describing it as a response to the death of 16-year-old Mikaela Naylon, for whom the measure is named. “Some things that come across your desk in Congress just make sense,” Mullin said on the Senate floor.

Sanders said he supports pediatric care work but attempted to attach a broader bipartisan health package as an amendment — including provisions related to community health centers and other programs—maintaining that the Senate should revive a larger deal negotiated earlier.

Mullin rejected that modification and ended the request with, “Therefore, I object.”

After the amendment bid failed, the presiding officer asked if there was an objection to the original request to pass the pediatric cancer bill. Sanders replied, “Yes,” effectively stopping the unanimous-consent path that would have cleared the measure quickly.

The bill cleared the House by voice vote on Dec. 1. It would amend federal law governing pediatric cancer drug investigations, including efforts to broaden access to targeted and combination therapies for children.

Mullin said he would keep pushing for legislation forward despite the setback.