President Donald J. Trump announced on Truth Social the nomination of Dr. Nicole B. Saphier as the next Surgeon General of the United States. Trump praised Saphier as a “STAR physician” who guides breast cancer patients through diagnosis and treatment while advocating for early detection and prevention.
Saphier, director of breast imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center-Monmouth, also treats all cancer types. A Fox News medical contributor since 2018, she simplifies complex health topics for Americans. Trump said she will advance the “Make America Healthy Again” agenda.
The announcement follows the stalled confirmation of Casey Means, Trump’s prior nominee grilled by Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in February hearings over vaccines and credentials. Means’ nomination, recommended by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., lacked votes post-HELP Committee review.
Saphier, 44, graduated from Ross University School of Medicine in 2008, completed radiology residency in Arizona, and a Mayo Clinic fellowship in breast and oncologic imaging. She led Arizona’s breast density notification law and pushed federal policy. Board-certified by the American Board of Radiology, she serves on the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Breast Cancer in Young Women.
Trump highlighted her communication skills for national health education. The post ended: “Congratulations Nicole, our Country has long been waiting for you!”
This comes after Trump withdrew Janette Nesheiwat in May 2025 for Means. Saphier’s conservative media presence may ease Senate path. No hearing date set; HELP Committee must vote first.
The Surgeon General issues health advisories on cancer, opioids, and more. Saphier’s focus aligns with MAHA’s disease prevention push.