Trump Nominates Wellness Influencer Casey Means as Surgeon General Amid Controversy
In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer and former surgical resident, to serve as the next U.S. Surgeon General, replacing his initial nominee, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, who withdrew following scrutiny over her credentials and political affiliations.
Dr. Means, who left her surgical residency to co-found a health technology company, is known for promoting natural health remedies and advocating for dietary reforms. She has been a vocal critic of the traditional medical establishment and has close ties to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Her nomination aligns with President Trump’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda, which emphasizes wellness and preventive care.
Despite lacking prior government experience, Dr. Means has been influential in health policy circles, particularly through her collaboration with her brother, Calley Means, a White House adviser. Together, they have championed initiatives such as removing fluoride from drinking water and limiting the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for purchasing processed foods.
Critics argue that Dr. Means’ views oversimplify complex health issues and may undermine established medical practices. While she has distanced herself from Secretary Kennedy’s anti-vaccine rhetoric, she has advocated for easing litigation against vaccine manufacturers, raising concerns among public health experts.
If confirmed, Dr. Means will be responsible for leading public health initiatives and implementing the MAHA agenda. Her nomination has sparked debate over the qualifications and perspectives necessary for the nation’s top public health official.
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