Trump's MAHA influencer pick for surgeon general goes before Senate
Ars Technica
by
Beth Mole
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump’s nominee for Surgeon General, Casey Means, is set to face scrutiny during her Senate confirmation hearing as questions arise about her qualifications and past actions. Despite earning a medical degree from Stanford University, Means dropped out of her residency and does not hold an active medical license. Instead, she has focused on promoting alternative medicine through her role as a wellness influencer and co-founding the company Levels, which markets intensive health tracking devices, including continuous glucose monitors for individuals without diabetes or prediabetes—a practice not supported by scientific evidence.
Means’ background and lack of traditional medical practice have raised concerns among Senate Health Committee members. Her focus on “functional” medicine, an alternative approach that is not widely recognized in mainstream healthcare, has drawn criticism from experts who question its effectiveness and safety. Additionally, Means has generated significant income through deals with companies selling diagnostic testing kits, herbal remedies, supplements, and wellness products, as revealed by The Washington Post.
This situation highlights the ongoing tension between conventional medicine and alternative health practices, particularly in the tech-driven wellness industry. Critics argue that promoting unproven medical methods could lead to public health risks and undermine trust in evidence-based healthcare. As Means’ nomination is debated, the broader implications for how technology intersects with medical practice remain a key concern for both advocates of innovation and traditional healthcare professionals.
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Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/25/2026