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It doesn't look like he has any administrative experience. Seems like a knowledgeable guy, though. Worked for Hillary before - maybe a fan of universal coverage?
Gupta has commented on the efficacy of vitamins in a negative way & stated his belief that universal health care is unnecessary. In my mind, the jury is out on Dr Gupta becoming Surgeon General
Gupta has commented on the efficacy of vitamins in a negative way & stated his belief that universal health care is unnecessary. In my mind, the jury is out on Dr Gupta becoming Surgeon General
Yeah. PZ is unhappy about this pick, too. I'm getting less impressed.
Well, he wouldn't have been my first choice... but I'm ok with it. After all the Surgeon General is not particularly powerful. Dr. Phil could probably do this job.
It's mostly an educational position, with little direct impact on policy-making. SG's tend to have outspoken personalities, which fits with Gupta. They give out awards, make announcements about health emergencies, and educate the public about various issues. A Surgeon General periodically issues health warnings, but that's usually at the advice of his boss, the Assistant Secretary for Health.
Because they have no power, SG's sometimes make controversial proposals. It brings attention to an issue and they can get away with it because they don't have any power to back it up.
Personally, I'd rather have a more serious scientist and not a celebrity. But at least Gupta isn't likely to promote an abstinence program, so he gets a thumbs up from me.
He gets criticized when he chooses people who have worked in govt. before, he gets criticized when he chooses "out of the box".
I think it is an unusual choice, simple as that. Reporters for CNN aren't normally the pool for cabinet positions...just sayin'.
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