President Trump announced Tuesday that he will nominate Dr. Janette Nesheiwat to serve as the next Surgeon General of the United States. Nesheiwat is a physician who has appeared frequently as a medical commentator on Fox News.
The announcement came paired with a pointed attack on Senator Bill Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican who has criticized the administration's handling of certain health policies. Trump called Cassidy "weak" and "disgraceful" during the nomination event, escalating a public feud that has been simmering for weeks.
Nesheiwat would become the nation\'s top doctor if confirmed by the Senate. She has no prior experience running a federal health agency, though she has worked in emergency medicine and urgent care settings. The Surgeon General role carries significant influence over public health messaging and policy recommendations.
This marks the second time Trump has nominated someone for the position. His first pick, Dr. Vivek Murthy, withdrew amid controversy over past statements about gun violence. The surgeon general post has remained vacant for over a year.
The nomination puts Senate Republicans in an awkward position, particularly those up for reelection in 2026 who may face pressure from both pro- and anti-Trump factions.