Dr. Mehmet Oz Confirmed as CMS Administrator in Bipartisan Vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dr. Mehmet Oz was confirmed Thursday as the administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in a largely bipartisan Senate vote of 53-45.

Oz, a former heart surgeon and television personality, gained national attention through his daytime medical show. His confirmation comes amid a significant shift in support from some Republican senators. Notably, Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri, who previously opposed Oz’s nomination, announced his support after Oz reassured him of his disavowal of past endorsements for transgender surgeries and his revised stance on pro-life laws.

The Senate’s support for Oz illustrates a break from the typically contentious process that surrounds nominations for high-ranking health positions. His confirmation hearing last month proceeded without the expected drama, though he faced scrutiny regarding his principles and past comments, particularly concerning health care policies.

Despite his celebrity and medical background, Oz enters the CMS with limited experience in government health policy. The agency operates under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and manages a budget of approximately $1.5 trillion, serving health insurance for about 160 million Americans.

“I am honored to take on this role and work to improve the health care system for all Americans,” Oz said following his confirmation. “I recognize the challenges ahead and am committed to ensuring that CMS efficiently delivers quality care.”

Oz’s appointment has sparked discussions about the direction of health policy, particularly regarding affordability and access to care. As he steps into this influential position, stakeholders nationwide will be watching closely how he navigates the complexities of the health care landscape.

Clarissa-Jan Lim is a breaking and trending news blogger for MSNBC Digital and has previously worked as a senior reporter and editor at BuzzFeed News.

AP Photo/Ben Curtis