United States President Donald Trump, has nominated Dr. Casey Means, a doctor-turned-health influencer, as the next Surgeon General of the U.S.
Dr. Means replaces Trump’s earlier pick, Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, just one day before her confirmation hearing.
Trump made the announcement on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, describing Dr. Means as a “perfect fit” for his administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda.
He praised her background and said she would help reverse the chronic disease epidemic.
Who is Dr. Casey Means?
Dr. Means, 37, holds a medical degree from Stanford University. She left her residency to pursue a career in health entrepreneurship.
She co-founded Levels, a company that markets continuous glucose monitors aimed at improving metabolic health.
Dr. Means also held research positions at the National Institutes of Health and several U.S. universities, according to her official bio.
In 2024, she co-authored a book with her brother Calley Means titled Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health.
The book gained traction among conservative media figures such as Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson.
On Carlson’s podcast, Dr. Means claimed that chronic illnesses are driven by a “toxic food system and toxic environment.”
She accused pharmaceutical and food companies of keeping patients dependent on medication.
“These subtle forces create lifelong illness,” she said. “They don’t kill us, but they make us drugged for life.”
Political ties and public health views
Dr. Means is a vocal supporter of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aligning with his anti-pharmaceutical and anti-processed food stance.
She previously said RFK Jr. “has a vision for the future that aligns with what I want for my family and the world.”
Her nomination reflects a shift toward more alternative health views within the Trump administration.
Controversy surrounding Dr. Nesheiwat
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat was originally slated to become Surgeon General.
However, questions about her medical credentials derailed her confirmation.
Reports revealed she claimed a degree from the University of Arkansas, but she actually graduated from American University of the Caribbean.
The University of Arkansas later confirmed she completed a residency there but did not earn a degree.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer also criticized Nesheiwat’s support for COVID-19 vaccines, calling her unfit for the role.
Trump stated that Dr. Nesheiwat would instead serve in another health-related position.
If confirmed, Dr. Means will become the leading voice on public health policy in the U.S. She would replace Jerome Adams, who served as Surgeon General during Trump’s first term.
