WASHINGTON, April 30 – U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Dr. Nicole Saphier, a radiologist and Fox News contributor, as his nominee for U.S. Surgeon General. This decision marks Trump’s third attempt to fill the position, following the withdrawal of Casey Means’ nomination.
The change comes in the wake of ongoing tensions between Trump and Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who has been accused by Trump of obstructing Means’ nomination. Trump labeled Cassidy a “very disloyal person” for his actions.
Means, who was a strong supporter of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., faced challenges in garnering sufficient support to advance her nomination from the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, which Cassidy chairs. Though not a practicing physician, Means has been a prominent figure in the Make America Healthy Again movement, which has raised concerns over vaccine advocacy. Her brother, Calley Means, is employed by the White House.
As the new nominee, Dr. Saphier, who is the director of breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, brings significant credentials, including a medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and fellowships at the Mayo Clinic. Trump praised Saphier in a post on Truth Social, calling her a “STAR physician” dedicated to advocating for women battling breast cancer.
Trump expressed confidence in Saphier’s capabilities, especially in delivering scientific information that promotes public health and wellness. In contrast, Means had pledged to continue fighting for the Kennedy-led movement, despite the setback from Cassidy’s opposition.
Kennedy himself lauded Means as a key advocate within his movement and criticized Cassidy for allegedly serving “entrenched interests” by delaying her nomination.
With Saphier now being nominated, this marks Trump’s second attempt at selecting a candidate for the role after he previously withdrew the nomination of Janette Nesheiwat last May, amidst pressure and opposition from far-right factions, including influencer Laura Loomer.
Means’ confirmation hearing has drawn scrutiny, with pointed questions from both Democrats and Republicans concerning her stances on vaccines and public health strategies. Following concerns regarding her qualifications, the withdrawal of her nomination has been celebrated by public health advocates, including Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen, who referred to it as a “clear-cut victory for public health.”
Dr. Saphier’s nomination is viewed with hope for a more supportive approach to public health administration, as she aligns with a vision that includes the prevention of chronic diseases through lifestyle changes.
