Trump taps wellness influencer close to RFK Jr. for surgeon general

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 12:07 pm

Trump Taps Wellness Influencer Dr. Casey Means for Surgeon General, Sparking Controversy

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Casey Means, a physician-turned-wellness influencer with ties to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as his pick for Surgeon General, replacing his initial choice, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat. This decision has raised eyebrows given Means' lack of government experience and her focus on alternative health approaches.

Means, who founded a health tech company and promotes natural health solutions, is closely aligned with Kennedy Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) agenda. This agenda emphasizes lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and removing additives from food. Means and her brother, a former lobbyist and current White House advisor, were key advisors to Kennedy Jr.'s presidential bid and have been vocal in criticizing the medical establishment.

The nomination has drawn criticism due to Means' unconventional background and her views on vaccines. While she has largely avoided Kennedy Jr.'s controversial stance on vaccines, her website advocates for further investigation into vaccine safety and easier lawsuits against drugmakers.

The previous nominee, Dr. Nesheiwat, a Fox News medical contributor, was withdrawn due to concerns about her confirmation prospects, including questions about her medical degree and criticism from far-right figures. The Surgeon General plays a crucial role in public health, overseeing the U.S. Public Health Service Corps and issuing health advisories.

BNN's Perspective: While Dr. Means' focus on preventative health and lifestyle changes is commendable, her lack of traditional government experience and ties to potentially controversial figures raise concerns. It's crucial that the Surgeon General prioritizes evidence-based medicine and maintains a balanced approach to public health, considering the diverse needs and perspectives of all Americans. The role requires a deep understanding of public health policy and the ability to navigate complex issues with scientific rigor.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Casey Means, Surgeon General, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., MAHA, health influencer, wellness, Janette Nesheiwat, vaccine safety, public health, chronic disease, lifestyle changes, food additives, medical establishment, alternative medicine, health tech, White House, nomination, confirmation, healthcare, health policy.

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