President Donald Trump is actively supporting Dr. Janet Neshwatt for the role of U.S. Surgeon General, as her confirmation hearing approaches. Some senators have noted her as a “struggling” champion of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, but backing for her seems to be solidifying.
According to a source close to the confirmation process, Neshwatt has had several “productive meetings” on Capitol Hill regarding her nomination.
Trump selects Dr. Janet Neshwatt as the next Surgeon General
Neshwatt has met with members of the Senate Assistance Committee and various health policy teams from the GOP. Reports indicate that these staff members have shown support for her selection, acknowledging her experience as a medical director for the Public Health Service. She has also conferred with Senators from Tennessee, Maryland, Colorado, and others.
Support for Neshwatt from Senator Marsha Blackburn was confirmed, but the specifics of her interactions with other senators like John Hickenlooper remain unclear.
During these discussions, a range of crucial topics surfaced: chronic diseases, opioid crises, nutrition, public health challenges, and the government’s role in monitoring health threats. Overall, the atmosphere was described positively.
As it stands, Neshwatt has met with almost all Republican senators on the Senate Aid Committee except for Senator Josh Hawley. Interestingly, independent Senator Katie Britt from Alabama, who isn’t on the committee, has expressed interest in meeting her soon.
Neshwatt is not just a former Fox News contributor; she is double-board certified in family and emergency medicine. Having grown up as the daughter of Jordanian immigrants, she has led healthcare teams during the Covid-19 pandemic and has previously managed responses to various health crises, including monkeypox and flu outbreaks.
She notably served as the first female medical director of CityMD in Manhattan, which is one of the largest emergency care systems in the country.
A brief chat with Dr. Dana Perino featuring Janet Neshwatt
When discussing Neshwatt’s nomination, Trump remarked on her role as a “strong advocate and communicator” in the realm of public health. He expressed pride in announcing her as a potential national doctor, highlighting her credentials and her dedication to ensuring that all Americans have access to quality healthcare.
Trump commended her efforts during the pandemic, specifically mentioning how she provided care for patients in New York City and played a vital role in America’s rapid operational response.
Neshwatt’s leadership drew praise, particularly in light of significant disasters like Hurricane Katrina. Trump emphasized that she would be integral in revitalizing America’s health.
Following their meeting, Senate Aid Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy noted the persistent healthcare issues that they discussed—a conversation he characterized as very constructive.
Senators are already framing Neshwatt as representative of the vision set by the Trump administration for the health sector. Senator Jim Banks highlighted her understanding of the health movement, suggesting that, under Trump’s leadership, American health priorities are shifting significantly.
Meanwhile, Senator Tommy Tuberville asserted that solid leadership is essential for improving health in America and emphasized that Neshwatt would work closely with other officials on transparency in the healthcare system.
Neshwatt’s educational journey began at the University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, with clinical rotations at notable institutions like Johns Hopkins and Metropolitan State Hospital. She completed her Family Medicine residency in Arkansas, where she was elected Chief Resident.
In 2009 and 2020, she achieved board certification in family and emergency medicine, respectively. The confirmation hearing for Neshwatt is scheduled for May 8 at 10 a.m., when senators will question her before voting on the nomination.
