Dr. Nicole Saphier Faces Senate Grilling as Trump’s Surgeon General Nominee

Dr. Nicole Saphier, Trump's third surgeon general pick, faces Senate scrutiny over vaccine views and ties to controversial health products.

Editorial Desk

September 16, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — Dr. Nicole Saphier, President Donald Trump’s third nominee for surgeon general, is set to face intense questioning from Senate lawmakers during her confirmation hearing Wednesday. The position, which serves as the nation’s top public health communicator, comes amid growing concerns about vaccine policies and potential conflicts of interest.

Saphier, a radiologist and former Fox News contributor, has drawn attention for her past skepticism about mandatory childhood vaccinations, including the hepatitis B shot at birth. She also owns a company that produces unregulated tinctures with ingredients linked to liver damage, raising questions about her suitability for the role. Her ethics filing reveals financial ties to major pharmaceutical and food companies, further complicating her nomination.

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The hearing will also examine her relationship with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose approach to public health has sparked controversy, particularly regarding vaccine guidance. Lawmakers are expected to press Saphier on whether she will support stronger vaccination efforts if confirmed, as measles outbreaks continue to alarm medical professionals across the country.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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