
Washington, D.C. — Former President Donald Trump has announced Dr. Casey Means as his nominee for the next United States Surgeon General, calling her a “potentially one of the greatest Surgeon Generals in United States history.” The nomination, posted to Trump’s Truth Social account, described Dr. Means as having “impeccable MAHA credentials” — a reference to his “Make America Healthy Again” agenda.
Background and Shift in Nomination
Dr. Means’ nomination follows the withdrawal of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, the prior nominee, after questions were raised about her educational background. Investigations revealed Nesheiwat earned her medical degree from a Caribbean medical school, which led to activist Laura Loomer publicly challenging her qualifications, according to a report by Axios. The Trump camp quickly pivoted to Dr. Means.
About Dr. Casey Means
- Education: Undergraduate and M.D. from Stanford University, where she served as class president and later joined the faculty.
- Training: Surgical residency in Head and Neck Surgery at Oregon Health & Science University.
- Innovation & Advocacy:
- Co-founder of Levels, a health tech firm focused on metabolic health.
- Author of Good Energy, a book promoting metabolic wellness and holistic health strategies.
Dr. Means emphasizes a sustainable, integrative approach to public health, blending conventional medicine with data-driven technology and lifestyle interventions.
Working with RFK Jr.
In a striking detail, Trump mentioned that Dr. Means would work “closely” with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services in Trump’s future administration lineup. This alignment is expected to underscore their shared skepticism of some traditional public health approaches, and focus on chronic disease prevention and metabolic reform.
What’s Next?
Dr. Means’ nomination will need to clear Senate confirmation, where her health-tech background and association with RFK Jr. may draw scrutiny from both parties. Supporters hail her as a modern reformer; critics may raise concerns over her stance on certain health regulations.