President Donald Trump ‘listened to’ RFK Jr about surgeon general pick Dr. Casey Means, who’s getting MAGA pushback
President Donald Trump made a surprising announcement on Thursday, revealing that he does not personally know his new nominee for U.S. surgeon general. Instead, he relied on the recommendation of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The president withdrew the nomination of his initial pick, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, and instead nominated Dr. Casey Means. Trump praised Means, stating that she has “impeccable ‘MAHA’ credentials.”
When questioned about his decision to nominate Means, Trump stated that Kennedy had spoken highly of her. He expressed confidence in her abilities, despite not having a personal relationship with her. The president emphasized that he trusted Kennedy’s judgment and believed that Means would excel in the role.
Means, a strong advocate for the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, has been actively involved in shaping the administration’s health agenda alongside her brother, Calley Means. The siblings co-authored a book in 2024 titled “Good Energy,” focusing on the chronic disease epidemic. Casey is also the co-founder of a health-tech company called Levels.
Calley Means previously served as a top special advisor to Kennedy within the administration, highlighting the family’s dedication to healthcare and wellness. The Means siblings are well-known in the wellness community, with Casey gaining recognition as a wellness influencer.
The reasons behind Nesheiwat’s nomination being withdrawn remain unclear. Despite the change in nominee, Nesheiwat expressed her commitment to supporting Trump and working closely with Kennedy in a senior policy role. She emphasized her continued focus on improving the health and well-being of all Americans.
In a related development, Trump hinted at nominating Michael Waltz, the brother-in-law of Nesheiwat and recently fired National Security Advisor, as the next ambassador to the United Nations. This decision came after the president dropped his initial nominee, New York GOP Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
Overall, Trump’s nomination of Dr. Casey Means for U.S. surgeon general reflects his administration’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare and wellness initiatives. With Kennedy’s endorsement and Means’ background as a wellness advocate, the president is confident in her ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. The White House’s decision to pivot to Means underscores the administration’s dedication to advancing public health efforts.
