Big Pharma Exec Alex Azar Faces Senate Confirmation Hearing

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The former pharmaceutical executive Alex Azar appears before the Senate today for his confirmation hearing to head the Department of Health and Human Services. Just two weeks ago, President Trump nominated Azar to take over the role once led by Tom Price, who resigned in September amid a scandal over his use of private planes. 

Azar was an executive at Eli Lily and Company for a decade. During his tenure, the price of drugs, like insulin, tripled. Azar has also worked for the government with Health and Human Services. Known as a loyal conservative, Republicans have embraced Azar. While Democrats have expressed concerns over Azar's healthcare policies, he is expected to be confirmed with his mix of industry and government qualifications. 

Juliet Eilperin, senior national affairs correspondent with The Washington Post, joins The Takeaway to discuss what Azar's confirmation could mean for the American healthcare. 

This segment is hosted by Todd Zwillich