Trump's Health Nominees: A Fresh Start or a Revolution?

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen a mix of unique figures to lead health agencies, including a retired congressman, a surgeon, and a former talk-show host. These picks might significantly alter the government’s approach to health, from healthcare and medicine to food safety and scientific research. At the helm of the Department of Health and Human Services could be Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , an environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist. While the nominees lack experience running large bureaucratic agencies, they possess TV savvy. For instance, Dr. Mehmet Oz, known for his talk show, is Trump’s pick for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Similarly, Dr. Marty Makary and Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, frequent Fox News contributors, are slated for the Food and Drug Administration and surgeon general roles, respectively. Many nominees have questioned COVID-19 measures like masking and vaccinations for young people. Some have ties to Florida, such as Dr. Dave Weldon, a former Florida congressman and CDC pick, and Dr. Nesheiwat, whose brother-in-law is a Florida representative. The potential role of these nominees in Kennedy’s agenda to “reorganize” health agencies, with a combined budget of $1. 7 billion and 80, 000 employees, is significant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with a $9. 2 billion budget, aims to protect Americans from disease outbreaks. Dr. Weldon, the CDC pick, has a history of criticizing vaccines and the CDC, aligning with Kennedy’s views. The Food and Drug Administration, with 18, 000 employees, is responsible for the safety of drugs and vaccines. Dr. Makary, the FDA pick, shares Kennedy’s views on reducing the influence of drug companies. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with a $1. 1 trillion budget, provides healthcare to over 160 million people. Dr. Oz, the pick for this agency, has voiced support for Medicare expansion. The surgeon general role, currently held by Dr. Vivek Murthy, who declared gun violence a public health crisis, might see a shift with Dr. Nesheiwat’s appointment.