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Sen. Kennedy comments

on President Bush’s surgeon general nominee James Holsinger, who has repeatedly espoused medically-inaccurate homophobic positions: “I am disappointed that the Administration looked past the many talented physicians who have a record of bringing people together and instead chose an individual whose record appears to guarantee a polarizing and divisive nomination process.” Kennedy chairs the committee that will confirm Holsinger’s appointment.

Read his full statement:

America faces major public health challenges — TB, health disparities, the growing crisis of obesity, and many more. The nation needs a Surgeon General who can bring people together to meet these critical challenges. I am disappointed that the Administration looked past the many talented physicians who have a record of bringing people together and instead chose an individual whose record appears to guarantee a polarizing and divisive nomination process. Our Committee has the responsibility to assess whether Dr. Holsinger can serve effectively as Surgeon General for all Americans, and we will hold a hearing in the coming weeks to determine whether to recommend that the Senate approve or reject his nomination.

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