The White House has withdrawn Dr. Janette Nesheiwat’s nomination for U.S. Surgeon General following scrutiny over discrepancies in her educational background and public statements. Dr. Nesheiwat had listed an M.D. from the University of Arkansas on her LinkedIn profile, despite having graduated from the American University of the Caribbean in St. Maarten. Additionally, conservative figures criticized her past support for COVID-19 vaccinations and lockdown measures, deeming her “not ideologically aligned” with President Trump’s base .

In her place, President Trump has nominated Dr. Casey Means, a Stanford-trained physician and wellness entrepreneur. Dr. Means co-founded the health company Levels and co-authored the book Good Energy with her brother, Calley. She is known for advocating a holistic approach to health and has ties to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has endorsed her nomination .

Dr. Means’ nomination has sparked controversy within the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement, with some anti-vaccine advocates criticizing her as insufficiently aligned with their views. Despite this, others within the movement support her appointment, highlighting her focus on chronic disease prevention and alternative health practices .

As of now, Dr. Means awaits Senate confirmation to officially assume the role of U.S. Surgeon General.