Washington, D.C. — Center for American Progress President Neera Tanden issued the following statement after a bipartisan coalition of senators voted to confirm Dr. Vivek Murthy as surgeon general:
The surgeon general serves a critical role as the nation’s top doctor, communicating important public health information and providing essential leadership during public health crises. At a time when we face numerous public health challenges both at home and abroad, America needs a surgeon general who can guide the nation’s health responses and instill public confidence. Dr. Vivek Murthy is an extremely qualified and experienced professional who will provide invaluable leadership to improve and protect the nation’s health. As the first Indian American to be appointed surgeon general, Dr. Murthy’s distinguished career and confirmation serve as a momentous recognition of the Indian American community’s contributions to the field of medicine.
I commend the Senate for confirming Dr. Murthy and putting the nation’s health ahead of partisanship and special interests. We look forward to working with our new surgeon general to address the nation’s greatest public health challenges.
For more information or to speak to an expert, contact Chelsea Kiene at [email protected] or 202.478.5328.
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