Collins questions Casey Means on ‘magic mushroom’ use during confirmation hearing
The Hill
by Max RegoFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) raised concerns during Dr. Casey Means’s confirmation hearing for surgeon general over her past support for psilocybin use. Holding a copy of Means’s upcoming book *Good Energy*, Collins questioned whether recommending psilocybin—a hallucinogenic substance found in certain mushrooms—was appropriate for someone nominated to lead the U.S. Public Health Service. Collins emphasized that such recommendations could undermine public trust in the surgeon general, setting off a broader debate about alternative medicine and its role in public health.
Means, President Trump’s nominee, has long advocated for the potential benefits of psilocybin in treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD. During her testimony, she defended her stance, stating that her research was based on scientific evidence and aimed at exploring innovative treatments. However, Collins argued that the surgeon general’s role requires a focus on mainstream medical practices and that promoting alternative therapies could send mixed signals to the public.
The clash highlights the tension between traditional medicine and alternative approaches in healthcare. Collins’s questioning underscores the political stakes of the confirmation process, as nominees must navigate complex cultural and policy landscapes. The debate over psilocybin also reflects broader societal discussions about drug policy and the potential medical benefits of substances once stigmatized. For readers interested in politics, this story illustrates how even niche issues can become flashpoints in high-stakes confirmations, raising questions about public health leadership and its alignment with mainstream expectations.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026