Trump picks Covid lockdown critic to lead top health agency

US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a prominent critic of Covid-19 lockdowns, to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Bhattacharya, a physician and economist from Stanford University, co-authored the Great Barrington Declaration, which advocated for protecting vulnerable populations rather than imposing widespread lockdowns during the pandemic. His nomination is part of Trump's broader strategy to assemble a public health team that challenges the established public health response to Covid-19. Alongside Bhattacharya, Trump has also nominated Robert Kennedy Jr. to head the health department, known for his vaccine skepticism, and Jim O’Neill as deputy secretary of health. Bhattacharya expressed his gratitude for the nomination, emphasizing a commitment to reforming American scientific institutions and addressing chronic health issues. Trump's selections, including other controversial figures like Marty Makary for the FDA and Dave Weldon for the CDC, have received mixed reactions, with some conservatives expressing concern over certain nominees' past statements. All nominees will require Senate confirmation before taking office.

- Dr. Jay Bhattacharya has been nominated to lead the NIH by President-elect Trump.

- Bhattacharya is known for co-authoring the Great Barrington Declaration, opposing lockdowns.

- Trump's public health team includes other controversial figures, such as Robert Kennedy Jr. and Marty Makary.

- The nominations reflect a shift in public health policy perspectives under Trump's administration.

- All nominees must be confirmed by the Senate before assuming their roles.