Calls on President Obama to Withdraw Murthy Nomination

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) called on President Obama to withdraw Dr. Vivek Murthy’s nomination to serve as U.S. Surgeon General and nominate a more qualified medical professional to serve in this position.

“Americans are justifiably worried about the spread of Ebola and concerned that it could reach their families. In the middle of growing uncertainty, President Obama and his team need to do everything possible to give the American people more confidence that their government is working effectively to prevent any more people from contracting this deadly virus.

“Now more than ever, our Nation needs to have an experienced and effective Surgeon General to help coordinate the government’s Ebola strategy. It has been clear for almost a year that the President’s nominee Dr. Vivek Murthy is not the right person for this consequential job. His nomination has stalled in the Senate for months because members from both sides of the aisle are concerned that Dr. Murthy is primarily known for his advocacy for gun control and his fundraising capabilities on behalf of the President. These ‘qualifications’ will not solve the wide range of public health problems currently facing Americans.

“It is now time for President Obama to immediately withdraw Dr. Murthy’s nomination and promptly nominate an experienced professional who can help prevent the spread of Ebola and tackle other serious health challenges. Americans deserve a Surgeon General who has substantial experience in managing complex crises and delivering patient care.”

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