By [Aditi Das], Published on May 8, 2025
In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump announced on May 7, 2025, that Dr. Casey Means, a Stanford-educated physician and prominent wellness influencer, has been nominated as the next U.S. Surgeon General. This decision came just one day before the scheduled Senate confirmation hearing for Trump’s initial nominee, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, whose nomination was abruptly withdrawn. The move has sparked widespread discussion, with supporters praising Means’ alignment with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement and critics questioning her qualifications and lack of an active medical license. This article delves into the details of this pivotal nomination, exploring Casey Means’ background, the controversy surrounding Nesheiwat’s withdrawal, and the implications for public health in the United States.
The Rise of Dr. Casey Means: From Surgeon to Wellness Advocate
Casey Means, MD, is no stranger to the health and wellness sphere. Born Paula Casey Means, she is a 37-year-old physician who graduated from Stanford University with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors and later earned her medical degree from Stanford Medical School. She also holds a certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine, emphasizing holistic and preventive approaches to health. However, Means’ career trajectory took an unconventional turn when she dropped out of her surgical residency program at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), citing disillusionment with the traditional medical system’s focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes.
Instead of pursuing a conventional medical career, Means co-founded Levels, a health technology company specializing in continuous glucose monitoring to optimize metabolic health. Her work at Levels has positioned her as a thought leader in the wellness industry, advocating for lifestyle changes to combat chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Additionally, Means co-authored the 2024 New York Times bestseller Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health with her brother, Calley Means, a former lobbyist turned health policy advisor. The book explores the link between metabolic health and overall well-being, offering practical strategies for improving energy and preventing chronic illnesses.
Means’ rise to prominence has been fueled by her alignment with the MAHA movement, a health reform initiative championed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The movement seeks to address the chronic disease epidemic by removing harmful additives from food, reforming federal health agencies, and promoting nutrition-focused policies. Means and her brother have been vocal advocates for MAHA, appearing on conservative podcasts hosted by figures like Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan, as well as at high-profile events such as a 2024 roundtable on American health and nutrition hosted by Senator Ron Johnson. Their close ties to Kennedy, who endorsed Trump in 2024, have positioned them as key players in the administration’s health policy agenda.
The Unexpected Shift: Janette Nesheiwat’s Withdrawal
The nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General came as a shock, primarily because it followed the sudden withdrawal of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Trump’s initial pick for the role. Nesheiwat, a board-certified family medicine physician and former Fox News medical contributor, was announced as the Trump Surgeon General nominee just two weeks after Trump’s election victory in November 2024. Her confirmation hearing was scheduled for May 8, 2025, before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. However, on May 7, Trump announced via Truth Social that Nesheiwat’s nomination was being pulled, with no explicit reason provided.
Several factors appear to have contributed to Nesheiwat’s withdrawal. Firstly, concerns were raised about her educational credentials. A CBS News report, citing journalist Anthony Clark, revealed that Nesheiwat had claimed to hold a medical degree from the University of Arkansas, when in fact, she graduated from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in St. Maarten. While she completed her residency at the University of Arkansas, the discrepancy fueled skepticism about her qualifications. Secondly, Nesheiwat faced criticism from conservative activist Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer with significant sway in Trump’s orbit. Loomer launched a public campaign against Nesheiwat, accusing her of supporting COVID-19 vaccines, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and being entangled in a medical malpractice lawsuit since 2021. Loomer’s posts on X, including one claiming Nesheiwat was “not ideologically aligned” with Trump’s health agenda, gained traction among MAGA supporters.
Additionally, Nesheiwat’s familial ties to recently fired National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, her brother-in-law, may have complicated her nomination. Waltz’s own controversies, including a security breach involving a Signal messaging group, further tarnished Nesheiwat’s standing within the administration. Trump stated that Nesheiwat would serve in another capacity at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), but her swift exit has been described as a significant setback for Trump’s personnel decisions.
Casey Means: A Controversial Choice for Surgeon General
The nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General has elicited both praise and criticism. Supporters, including Trump and Kennedy, laud her “impeccable MAHA credentials” and her potential to be “one of the finest Surgeon Generals in United States history.” They argue that her focus on preventive health, nutrition, and holistic medicine aligns with the administration’s goal of reversing the chronic disease epidemic. Means’ academic background, entrepreneurial success, and public advocacy make her a compelling figure to lead the nation’s public health efforts, particularly within the framework of the MAHA movement.
However, critics have raised significant concerns about Means’ qualifications. Unlike Nesheiwat, who is board-certified and has practiced medicine for years, Means does not hold an active medical license. After dropping out of her residency program, she shifted her focus to wellness advocacy, which some experts argue lacks the clinical rigor required for the Surgeon General role. Immunologist and microbiologist Andrea Love, a vocal critic of MAHA, has accused Means of promoting “pseudoscience” and endorsing unproven wellness products. Love’s critique, shared on X, highlights Means’ claims about “hacking metabolism” as misleading and unsupported by scientific evidence.
Moreover, Laura Loomer, who played a pivotal role in Nesheiwat’s ousting, has turned her criticism toward Means. In a series of X posts on May 8, 2025, Loomer questioned Means’ lack of an active medical license, her use of her middle name “Casey” instead of her given name “Paula,” and her alleged involvement in unconventional practices such as communicating with spirit mediums and using “plant medicine” like psilocybin mushrooms. Loomer also claimed that Means’ father wrote a pro-trans children’s book, attempting to paint her as misaligned with conservative values. These accusations, while inflammatory, have stirred debate about Means’ suitability for the role.
Nicole Shanahan, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s 2024 vice-presidential running mate, also expressed skepticism about Means and her brother Calley Means, suggesting in an X post that their appointment was a betrayal of promises made during Kennedy’s campaign. This public dissent underscores the contentious nature of Means’ nomination within conservative circles.
The Role of the Surgeon General and MAHA’s Vision
The U.S. Surgeon General is often referred to as the “nation’s doctor,” serving as the leading authority on public health. The role involves providing medical advice, issuing reports on pressing health issues, and overseeing the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, a uniformed service dedicated to promoting national health. If confirmed, Casey Means as Surgeon General would be tasked with advancing Kennedy’s ambitious MAHA agenda, which includes:
- Removing Harmful Additives: Banning thousands of chemicals and food dyes from the U.S. food supply, as evidenced by the Trump administration’s recent announcement to phase out certain food dyes.
- Reforming Federal Agencies: Addressing conflicts of interest within agencies like the FDA and CDC to prioritize public health over corporate interests.
- Promoting Nutrition: Incentivizing healthier school lunches, reforming SNAP benefits, and reducing fluoride in drinking water.
Means’ background in metabolic health and her advocacy for lifestyle-based interventions align closely with these goals. Her work at Levels and her book Good Energy emphasize the importance of nutrition, exercise, and sleep in preventing chronic diseases, which affect over 60% of American adults. Supporters argue that her outsider perspective could bring fresh ideas to a public health system criticized for its reliance on pharmaceuticals and reactive care.
However, the Surgeon General role requires navigating complex political and scientific landscapes, communicating evidence-based recommendations to the public, and managing crises such as pandemics. Critics question whether Means, with no government experience and an inactive medical license, is equipped to handle these responsibilities. Her association with controversial figures like Kennedy, who has faced criticism for spreading vaccine misinformation, further complicates her path to confirmation.
The Influence of Calley Means and the MAHA Movement
Calley Means, Casey’s brother, plays a significant role in the MAHA movement and the Trump administration’s health policy. A former lobbyist who transitioned into a health policy advisor, Calley serves as a top special advisor to Secretary Kennedy at HHS. His advocacy for MAHA has included promoting restrictions on SNAP benefits, removing fluoride from drinking water, and banning certain food additives. Like his sister, Calley has leveraged media appearances to amplify MAHA’s message, often framing the healthcare system as prioritizing profit over patient outcomes.
The Means siblings’ close relationship with Kennedy dates back to their involvement in his 2024 presidential campaign, where they served as key advisors and helped broker his endorsement of Trump. Their influence within the administration has drawn both admiration and scrutiny. Supporters view them as visionaries challenging a broken healthcare system, while detractors argue that their lack of clinical or governmental experience undermines their credibility.
The MAHA movement itself has gained significant traction among conservatives, particularly those skeptical of Big Pharma and federal health agencies. Its focus on holistic health and nutrition resonates with a growing segment of the population concerned about rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and mental health disorders. However, critics warn that MAHA’s rejection of certain medical interventions, such as vaccines, could undermine public health efforts and exacerbate misinformation.
The Road to Confirmation: Challenges and Opportunities
As Casey Means’ nomination moves to the Senate for confirmation, she faces a challenging path. The Senate HELP Committee, which was set to review Nesheiwat’s nomination, will now scrutinize Means’ qualifications, background, and alignment with public health priorities. Key questions likely to arise include:
- Lack of Active Medical License: Means’ decision to forgo completing her residency and maintain an inactive medical license may raise concerns about her clinical expertise.
- MAHA’s Controversial Stance: The movement’s skepticism of vaccines and pharmaceutical interventions could alienate senators who prioritize evidence-based medicine.
- Political Polarization: Means’ association with Kennedy and the Trump administration may make her a polarizing figure, complicating bipartisan support.
Despite these challenges, Means has opportunities to make a compelling case. Her academic credentials, entrepreneurial success, and public advocacy demonstrate a commitment to health reform. By emphasizing data-driven solutions, such as the link between poor nutrition and chronic disease, she could appeal to senators across the aisle. Additionally, her alignment with Kennedy’s HHS agenda positions her as a key player in implementing Trump’s health priorities.
The Broader Implications for Public Health
The nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General reflects a broader shift in the Trump administration’s approach to public health. By prioritizing MAHA’s preventive and holistic principles, the administration signals a departure from traditional medical models that emphasize pharmaceuticals and acute care. This shift could have far-reaching implications, including:
- Policy Reforms: Increased scrutiny of food additives, changes to nutrition programs, and reforms to federal health agencies could reshape the healthcare landscape.
- Public Perception: Means’ role as a wellness influencer may resonate with younger, health-conscious Americans but risks alienating those who trust established medical institutions.
- Health Equity: MAHA’s focus on nutrition and lifestyle could address disparities in chronic disease rates, but only if policies are accessible to low-income and marginalized communities.
The controversy surrounding Janette Nesheiwat’s withdrawal and Means’ nomination also highlights the growing influence of figures like Laura Loomer in shaping Trump’s personnel decisions. Loomer’s ability to sway nominations underscores the power of social media and conservative influencers in modern politics, a trend that may continue to impact the administration’s health agenda.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Surgeon General’s Office
The nomination of Dr. Casey Means as Surgeon General marks a bold and controversial choice for the Trump administration. Her background as a wellness advocate, coupled with her alignment with the MAHA movement, positions her to champion a transformative vision for public health. However, her lack of an active medical license and the polarizing nature of her nomination present significant hurdles. As the Senate prepares to review her candidacy, the nation watches closely to see whether Means can bridge the gap between wellness advocacy and evidence-based medicine.
The withdrawal of Dr. Janette Nesheiwat and the rise of Casey Means underscore the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Trump’s health policy decisions. With Calley Means and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. by her side, Means has the potential to reshape the Surgeon General’s role, but only if she can navigate the scrutiny and skepticism that lie ahead. For now, the future of America’s public health hangs in the balance, as the nation awaits the outcome of this historic nomination.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Dr. Casey Means?
Dr. Casey Means is a Stanford-educated physician, wellness influencer, and co-founder of Levels, a health technology company. She is a prominent advocate for the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement and was nominated as U.S. Surgeon General by President Donald Trump in May 2025.
2. Why was Dr. Janette Nesheiwat’s nomination withdrawn?
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat’s nomination was withdrawn due to concerns about her educational credentials, criticism from conservative activist Laura Loomer over her support for COVID-19 vaccines, and her familial ties to former National Security Advisor Michael Waltz. Trump announced her withdrawal on May 7, 2025.
3. What is the MAHA movement?
The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, championed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., seeks to address the chronic disease epidemic by removing harmful food additives, reforming federal health agencies, and promoting nutrition-focused policies.
4. Does Casey Means have an active medical license?
No, Casey Means does not currently hold an active medical license. She dropped out of her surgical residency program and has focused on wellness advocacy rather than clinical practice.
5. What role does Calley Means play in the Trump administration?
Calley Means, Casey Means’ brother, serves as a top special advisor to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He is a key advocate for the MAHA movement and influences the administration’s health policy agenda.
6. How has Laura Loomer influenced the Surgeon General nomination?
Laura Loomer, a conservative activist, played a significant role in Dr. Janette Nesheiwat’s withdrawal by publicly criticizing her credentials and COVID-19 vaccine stance. She has also criticized Casey Means, highlighting her lack of an active medical license.
Reference:
- Stanford Medicine –
Relevant for Casey Means’ educational background and medical degree. - New York Times
Provides credible reporting on Trump’s Surgeon General nomination. - Fox News –
Offers insights into Janette Nesheiwat’s background and the MAHA movement. - Healthline –
Authoritative source for metabolic health and wellness, aligning with Means’ advocacy. - CNN –
Covers the withdrawal of Nesheiwat and the nomination of Casey Means.
