Following an intense Senate Health Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, President Trump’s nominee for Surgeon General, Dr. Casey Means, is facing criticism from some medical professionals who question whether she has the experience required for the role. Among them is California-based board-certified surgeon and Culinary Medicine specialist Dr. Terry Simpson, who reacted in a TikTok video that has gained traction online.
Simpson challenged Means’ professional background and clinical experience, arguing that the position traditionally requires extensive hands-on medical and research credentials.
“We used to appoint surgeon generals who had actually seen blood, run intensive care programs, published serious academic research, had a serious clinical practice, understood and could withstand epidemics with the best of them. This is not a ribbon cutting person. This is not a person for publicity. This should be a serious academic individual who has earned their marks professionally. Doctor Casey Means has not. Instead, she didn’t finish a surgical residency, she dropped out. She never had a meaningful clinical practice. She has not done any serious clinical research whatsoever,” Simpson said.
Simpson also criticized Means’ past remarks on vaccines and public health. According to The New York Times, the wellness influencer has made controversial claims suggesting that vaccinating children could contribute to health decline. Simpson argued that appointing a Surgeon General who spreads fear and has no stake “other than bringing back infectious disease” could weaken public trust in federal health guidance.
“She is another parody of the individuals that are brought before the current Trump administration attempting to propel their version of health care on the American people,” he said. “What we need is a true, credible individual to take that position that can bring it before the United States.”
During the hearing, Senator Andy Kim asked Means whether she planned to reactivate her medical license if confirmed, noting that Commissioned Corps officers in the U.S. Public Health Service are generally expected to maintain current licensure and certification. Means responded that she does not plan to reactivate it because she would not be seeing patients in the role and said her license is unexpired but voluntarily inactive.
Medical Professionals and Netizens Weigh In
Reacting to the California doctor’s video on TikTok, several netizens, including individuals who identified themselves as medical professionals, agreed that high-level public health positions should be held by candidates with extensive clinical and research experience.
One person wrote, “Last thing USA needs…more incompetence.” Another said, “Congress needs to wake up and create actual required job qualifications in order to be considered for these positions.”
Some people also directed criticism at the administration’s selection process. “I continue to feel so betrayed and violated,” one physician said. Another netizen commented, “The only qualifications necessary for this administration is a total lack of any qualifications.” A third added, “Her nomination is so disappointing. Not anymore than RFK’s….but just another blow to those of us that are in clinical practice.”
