Trump Picks Unusual Candidates for Key Health Roles

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen some surprising figures for top public health jobs. One of them is Dr. Marty Makary, a surgeon and author who has been outspoken against vaccine mandates and other public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Makary, a professor at Johns Hopkins University, is set to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Trump also picked Dr. Dave Weldon, a former Republican congressman from Florida, to head the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, Fox News contributor Janette Nesheiwat is likely to become the next surgeon general. Makary is known for his views on reducing the influence of pharmaceutical companies and improving health systems. He has criticized the overprescribing of drugs and the use of pesticides on food. Trump believes Makary will restore the FDA to a high standard of scientific research and reduce bureaucratic red tape. The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of prescription drugs, vaccines, and many other consumer products. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Makary gained attention for his contrarian views. He questioned the need for masking and expressed concerns about booster vaccinations for young children. He also supported the idea of herd immunity to stop the virus. Medical experts have concluded that vaccinations significantly reduced severe disease in children. The CDC, based in Atlanta, develops vaccines and monitors infectious disease outbreaks. Weldon, a staunch pro-life Republican, has been involved in legislation related to human cloning and embryos. His nomination may appeal to anti-abortion advocates who had concerns about Trump's previous pick for the top health job. Nesheiwat, a medical director for an urgent care company in New York, is a regular on Fox News and has shown support for Trump. If confirmed, she will oversee U. S. Public Health Service Corps members. Surgeons general can issue advisories about public health threats, influencing government and medical responses.