A New Surgeon General on the Horizon

The Senate health committee will hear from Dr. Casey Means, a 38‑year‑old wellness advocate, on Wednesday as she seeks the top public health post in Washington. The meeting was pushed back from last October after Means unexpectedly went into labor the day she was scheduled to appear. During her testimony, Means is expected to outline a plan that tackles chronic illness by targeting diet and lifestyle choices. Her approach aligns with the current health department’s shift away from controversial vaccine policies toward healthier eating habits, especially as elections draw nearer. However, the nominee faces scrutiny over her background and potential conflicts of interest. Although she earned a medical degree from Stanford, she left her surgical residency in 2018 after questioning the healthcare system’s fairness. Since then, she has promoted a range of health products and founded a nutrition‑tracking app called Levels. Financial records show she earned significant income from these ventures, sometimes without fully disclosing her financial stake.If confirmed, Means would hold the authority to issue national health advisories and advance President Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, which includes removing additives from foods, curbing federal conflicts of interest, and improving school lunch nutrition. She has also expressed a willingness to investigate vaccine safety more thoroughly, despite not endorsing the administration’s controversial vaccine stance. Critics point out that Means lacks current government experience and her medical license is inactive. Former surgeons general, including Dr. Rich Carmona and Dr. Jerome Adams, have publicly questioned her suitability for the role, citing concerns about qualifications and the need for an active medical license. Means’ brother, Calley Means, serves as a senior adviser at the Department of Health and Human Services and has been involved in promoting the administration’s anti‑ultra‑processed food message. The nomination follows the withdrawal of former Fox News medical commentator Janette Nesheiwat, who faced backlash from allies within the administration. The outcome of this hearing will shape whether a wellness influencer can lead the nation’s public health efforts or if the position should remain with someone who has a more traditional medical and governmental background.