Nicole Saphier, a radiologist and Fox News medical contributor, has been nominated by Donald Trump to serve as the US surgeon general, marking his third attempt to fill the role after withdrawing nominations for Janette Nesheiwat and Casey Means. While the surgeon general cannot create laws, regulations, or enforce policy, the position remains one of the most influential health roles in the nation.
Confirmation Prospects
Art Caplan, a professor of medical ethics at NYU's Grossman School of Medicine, described Saphier as 'almost a lock' to pass her confirmation hearing. He noted that she is 'a very effective communicator' who appears 'mainstream enough' to secure the position. Despite disagreeing with her on vaccines, Caplan believes her views 'won't prove to be fatal' to her nomination. Jerome Adams, surgeon general under the first Trump administration, called Saphier 'overall a solid pick' and praised her ability to reach conservative audiences.
Background and Career
Saphier is a licensed physician specializing in breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's Monmouth location. She emphasizes prevention, particularly of breast cancer, which she has linked to lower birth rates, older pregnancies, and reduced breastfeeding. She argues that cancer prevention should support younger parents and breastfeeding. Saphier has appeared on Fox News more than 640 times and would be the 25th Trump administration official with a Fox background.
Public Health Stance
Saphier has questioned routine childhood vaccines and public health measures for COVID-19. In February 2025, she stated that most 'good research' shows no link between vaccines and autism, but she has criticized vaccine mandates for school attendance. She expressed concern about the declining vaccination rates and the need to rebuild trust in public health. However, she has also called for rolling back mandates while emphasizing that vaccines are 'overwhelmingly safe.'
Regarding COVID-19, Saphier incorrectly claimed in 2021 that children do not transmit the virus as effectively as adults, and she advocated for teachers to return to school before vaccines were fully available. In December 2021, she suggested allowing the Omicron variant to circulate to build hybrid immunity, despite 244,000 COVID-19 deaths the following year. She has praised the removal of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for healthy children.
Gender-Affirming Care and Other Views
Saphier has been a vocal opponent of gender-affirming care, calling being transgender a 'national emergency' and questioning whether it is a 'fad.' She has also opposed research on hormone blockers. Additionally, she owns Drop Rx, an herbal tincture company, and promotes supplements on social media with claims not evaluated by the FDA.
Reactions and Analysis
While some experts see Saphier as a competent communicator, concerns remain about her vaccine skepticism and ties to the wellness industry. Caplan criticized her suggestion to space out the vaccine schedule as 'nonsense,' emphasizing the danger of incomplete vaccination. Adams expressed hope that her focus on personal responsibility would soften as she gains a broader view of public health challenges.
