The U.S. surgeon general nominee, Casey Means, faced questions about vaccines, autism research, and her qualifications before Congress this week, as part of the Trump administration’s effort to remake America’s health systems. Means, a member of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, expressed concerns about preventable diseases, but her views on vaccines have sparked controversy.
Means, a 38-year-old wellness influencer, lacks an active medical license and has no plans to reactivate it, even if she is confirmed. She graduated from Stanford’s medical school but left her surgical residency program before completing it. Means has been a vocal advocate for addressing the root causes of chronic diseases, including ultra-processed diet, industrial chemical exposure, and lack of physical activity. She has also promoted monitoring blood glucose levels and has written about the importance of mindful eating. However, her views on vaccines have been criticized, with some accusing her of promoting anti-vaccine rhetoric. Means has claimed that “anti-vaccine rhetoric has never been a part of my message,” but has suggested that the link between autism and vaccines remains unexplored.
Means’ nomination has been met with criticism due to her lack of experience as a practicing physician and her involvement in the health tech industry. She is a co-founder and former chief medical officer of the health tech startup Levels, which has raised funding from prominent Silicon Valley investors, including Andreessen Horowitz. Means has also made hundreds of thousands of dollars promoting supplements, vitamins, and wellness products through her newsletter and social media channels, often without disclosing her paid partnerships. The American Medical Association has stated that there is no link between vaccines and autism, and has urged people to seek vaccines which have been proven to be safe and effective.
The controversy surrounding Means’ nomination comes as 15 states announced that they would sue the Trump administration over its decision to pare down federal recommendations for childhood vaccines. Means was pressed repeatedly to articulate her position on childhood vaccines, but emphasized parent and patient choice over universal public health policies. Her response has sparked concerns that her views on vaccines could dissuade adults and parents from seeking potentially life-saving vaccinations. As the nomination process continues, it remains to be seen how Means’ views on vaccines and public health will shape the national health conversation.
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