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Laura Loomer Targets Trump’s Pick for Surgeon General as Kennedy Pushes Back

The New York Times's profile
The New York Times
May 9
Laura Loomer Targets Trump’s Pick for Surgeon General as Kennedy Pushes Back

Context:

President Trump's nomination of Dr. Casey Means as Surgeon General has sparked intense debate due to her unconventional medical background and practices. Dr. Means, a Stanford-educated wellness specialist and author, left her surgical residency to focus on functional medicine, which has drawn criticism from far-right activist Laura Loomer and others. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended Means, highlighting her ability to inspire Americans to rethink healthcare, despite her lack of a current medical license. Critics, including medical ethicist Arthur L. Caplan, have expressed concerns over her promotion of unproven health interventions and lack of traditional medical authority. While major medical groups have remained silent, the discussion centers on the qualifications required for the role of Surgeon General and the implications of appointing a non-practicing physician to the position.

Dive Deeper:

  • Dr. Casey Means, nominated by President Trump as Surgeon General, has faced backlash due to her non-traditional medical background, having left her surgical residency to practice functional medicine.

  • Laura Loomer, a notable far-right activist with influence over Trump, criticized Means for her unconventional methods, such as using plant medicine and lacking an active medical license.

  • Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. staunchly defended Means, arguing that her departure from the traditional medical system makes her a threat to the status quo and emphasizing her success in inspiring health system reform.

  • Critics like Arthur L. Caplan have raised concerns about Means' advocacy for unproven health interventions, arguing that her approach lacks scientific rigor and could undermine public health education.

  • Dr. David A. Kessler, a former FDA head, suggested that while Means may face valid criticism, her completion of four years in surgical residency indicates adequate medical training, though the debate continues over what constitutes suitable qualifications for the Surgeon General role.

  • The controversy highlights a broader discussion on the role and influence of the Surgeon General, with historical examples showing the position's impact through public health advocacy rather than policy-making power.

  • Means and her brother, both wellness entrepreneurs, have been criticized in the media as 'wellness influencers,' yet they continue to advocate for addressing chronic disease through lifestyle changes and environmental considerations.

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