President Trump recently appointed Dr. Casey Means as the new surgeon general, a decision that came shortly after some controversy surrounding the previous candidate, Janet Neshwat. Critics, including activist Laura Rumer, highlighted inaccuracies regarding Neshwat’s educational credentials and military background, which sparked widespread discontent.
In his announcement, Trump praised Dr. Means, a Stanford-educated physician and tech entrepreneur, for her potential to address chronic health issues in America. He expressed enthusiasm over working with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to advance this health agenda, asserting that Dr. Means could leave a significant mark in the role.
Responses to the appointment have been mixed. Many of Trump’s supporters welcomed the change as an improvement over Neshwat. However, some have scrutinized Dr. Means’ qualifications and past statements.
Opposition
Nicole Shanahan, who is affiliated with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s 2024 campaign, expressed confusion about the appointment. She questioned why individuals without deeper ties to the HHS were being promoted, suggesting that communication from RFK Jr. might not be clear.
In previously reported threats, Shanahan was warned against obstructing Kennedy’s nominations for health positions, hinting at political tensions within the party. She later insinuated on social media that Kennedy might be responding to outside influences rather than to Trump.
Some also noted Dr. Means’ family ties, mentioning her brother’s connections to the White House as adding a layer of artificiality to her nomination. Responses from other critics focused on Dr. Means’ incomplete surgical residency and her unconventional beliefs, including references to spiritual practices.
Rumer, for example, labeled the new surgeon general a “crack pot” and questioned her medical licensure status, highlighting that Means doesn’t have an active license.
Support
On the other hand, Secretary Kennedy defended the appointment, emphasizing that the surgeon general symbolizes moral authority against institutional pressures surrounding medicine. He dismissed criticisms of Dr. Means as absurd and highlighted her dedication to truth, despite her unconventional approach.
Kennedy characterized the backlash as indicative of broader issues in healthcare conversations, particularly regarding the influence of large corporations and social media. He celebrated Dr. Means as a target of criticism from those who benefit from the status quo.
Other proponents echoed the call for a departure from traditional health systems, suggesting that Dr. Means represents a fresh perspective against established norms. They criticized detractors for using misleading tactics against her, asserting that her appointment aligns with their vision for health reform.
Amidst the back and forth, Dr. Means received support from figures within the MAGA community, with many rallying behind her nomination and expressing optimism about Trump’s choice.
