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Trump Withdraws Surgeon General Nomination and Announces New Pick, Dr. Casey Means

The New York Times's profile
The New York Times
May 7
Trump Withdraws Surgeon General Nomination and Announces New Pick, Dr. Casey Means

Context:

President Trump has withdrawn the nomination of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as surgeon general and announced Dr. Casey Means as his new choice. Dr. Means, a wellness influencer and co-author of a book on chronic illness, is known for her skepticism of the American medical system and belief that metabolic dysfunction is a root cause of chronic diseases. She is expected to work closely with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on initiatives related to the Make America Healthy Again movement. Dr. Nesheiwat's nomination faced challenges due to ideological differences and questions about her résumé, leading Trump to redirect her to another role within the health department. Meanwhile, Michael Waltz, Nesheiwat's brother-in-law, is set to be nominated as ambassador to the United Nations after serving as Trump's national security adviser.

Dive Deeper:

  • President Trump has replaced his initial surgeon general nominee, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, with Dr. Casey Means, citing Means's alignment with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda and her potential to collaborate effectively with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

  • Dr. Casey Means, who co-authored 'Good Energy' with her brother, emphasizes the role of metabolic dysfunction in America's chronic disease epidemic and critiques the current American medical system, focusing on environmental and dietary factors.

  • Dr. Means has garnered significant support among conservatives, particularly after appearances on podcasts hosted by Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan, where her ideas resonated with their audiences.

  • The nomination of Dr. Nesheiwat faced opposition from influential conservative activist Laura Loomer and scrutiny over her résumé, resulting in her nomination being reconsidered for another position within the health department.

  • Dr. Nesheiwat's familial connection to Michael Waltz, who is transitioning from his role as Trump's national security adviser to ambassador to the United Nations, adds another layer to the nomination dynamics.

  • Dr. Means's professional background includes earning degrees from Stanford University and co-founding Levels, a digital health company that focuses on metabolic health monitoring through continuous glucose tracking.

  • President Trump has communicated these changes and nominations through social media, reinforcing his commitment to addressing the chronic disease epidemic and promoting health initiatives aligned with his administration's goals.

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