Trump ditches original pick, taps wellness influencer Casey Means for surgeon general
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 2:33 pm
Trump Taps Wellness Influencer Casey Means for Surgeon General, Shifting Health Focus
President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Casey Means, a physician-turned-wellness-influencer, as his pick for Surgeon General, replacing his initial choice, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat. This move signals a potential shift in the administration's approach to public health, moving away from traditional medical expertise towards a focus on wellness and lifestyle changes.
Means, who has close ties to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is known for her advocacy of natural foods and lifestyle interventions to combat chronic diseases. She founded a health tech company, Levels, and promotes dietary supplements and other products on social media. Her brother, Calley Means, is a White House advisor and a key figure in promoting the "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) agenda. This agenda includes initiatives like removing additives from food and incentivizing healthier school lunches.
Trump's decision to withdraw Nesheiwat, a Fox News medical contributor, from consideration highlights the challenges of navigating the confirmation process. Nesheiwat faced scrutiny over her medical background and past statements. The Surgeon General's role is crucial, overseeing the U.S. Public Health Service Corps and issuing public health advisories.
Means' nomination has sparked debate, with some questioning her lack of government experience and her criticism of traditional medicine. While she has largely avoided Kennedy's controversial views on vaccines, she has called for more investigation into their safety.
BNN's Perspective: This nomination is a bold move by Trump, reflecting a desire to shake up the status quo in healthcare. While the focus on preventative health and lifestyle changes is commendable, the lack of traditional medical experience in such a critical role raises concerns. The potential for conflicts of interest and the promotion of unproven health claims must be carefully considered. It's essential that the Surgeon General prioritizes evidence-based medicine and works collaboratively with established medical professionals to ensure the health and well-being of all Americans.
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