What Happened
Dr. Casey Means, a prominent figure in the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement, is facing scrutiny as she seeks confirmation to become the U.S. surgeon general. A best-selling author and wellness influencer, Means was nominated by President Trump and was scheduled for a Senate Health Committee hearing last October, which she missed due to giving birth to her son.
Why It Matters
Means’ nomination has sparked debate over her qualifications, as she is no longer a practicing physician and lacks an active medical license. While she holds a medical degree from Stanford, her career has shifted towards wellness advocacy and alternative medicine, raising concerns among some senators regarding her suitability for the role of the nation’s top doctor. Means has emphasized the urgent need for a holistic approach to health, citing the U.S. as the most chronically ill high-income nation.
What’s Next
As Means continues her confirmation process, she is expected to address questions about her qualifications and the controversial aspects of her career, including her ties to the MAHA movement and her promotion of alternative health practices. The outcome of her nomination could influence the direction of public health policy in the U.S.
