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NewsNPR PoliticsMay 1, 2026United States

President Trump Nominates Dr. Nicole Saphier for Surgeon General

President Trump has nominated Dr. Nicole Saphier, a radiologist and media contributor, as the new Surgeon General. This follows the withdrawal of two previous nominees, including Dr. Casey Means, amid concerns regarding credentials and policy positions.

Surgeon GeneralPresidential AppointmentsPublic HealthSenate ConfirmationHealthcare Policy
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Why It Matters

The serves as the nation's lead spokesperson on public health, and this nomination will undergo a Senate that determines who will lead federal health messaging and advisories.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Nicole B. Saphier is the third nominee for Surgeon General under the current administration.
  • The nomination of Dr. Casey Means was withdrawn after she faced opposition from senators regarding her views on vaccines and lack of an active medical license.
  • Senator Bill Cassidy, chair of the Senate HELP Committee, indicated that Dr. Means lacked the necessary votes for confirmation.
  • Dr. Saphier is a radiologist specializing in breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New Jersey.
  • Dr. Saphier is a frequent medical contributor to Fox News and host of the podcast 'Wellness Unmasked'.
  • Dr. Saphier authored a book in 2020 titled 'Make America Healthy Again'.
  • The Surgeon General is responsible for issuing public health advisories and promoting science-based health measures.
  • Dr. Saphier has expressed support for 'medical freedom' regarding individual vaccine choices.

Who's Mentioned

dollar_amount2026“Copyright year of the article.”organizationSenate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee“Committee responsible for confirmation hearings.”personCasey Means“Previous nominee whose nomination was withdrawn.”personBill Cassidy“Republican Senator from Louisiana and chair of the Senate HELP Committee.”organizationMemorial Sloan Kettering“Medical center where Dr. Saphier works.”personNicole B. Saphier“Nominee for Surgeon General.”personRobert F. Kennedy Jr.“Health Secretary.”personDonald Trump“President who announced the nomination.”