Controversial Nominee: Casey Means' Path to Surgeon General Confirmation

Casey Means, nominated for U.S. surgeon general, faced scrutiny over her vaccine skepticism and birth control remarks during a Senate hearing. As President Trump's pick, Means committed to addressing chronic diseases, despite opposition and concerns about financial conflicts from promoting wellness products.

In a dramatic Senate hearing, wellness influencer and Trump's nominee for U.S. surgeon general, Casey Means, defended her controversial views on vaccines and birth control. Means, a non-practicing doctor, faced tough questions from both sides as senators examined her past positions and potential financial conflicts.

Means, aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., distanced herself from anti-vaccine rhetoric, though she dodged disavowing Kennedy's debunked vaccine-autism link claims. Despite acknowledging vaccine importance, she urged further research on cumulative effects and stressed the availability of contraceptives along with consultations about risks.

With a panel divided over her fitness for the nation's top health role, Means also promised to tackle chronic diseases by addressing diet, chemical exposure, and lifestyle factors. Facing skepticism over wellness product promotions and financial ties, she pledged to divest interests upon confirmation.

(With inputs from agencies.)