President-elect Trump has recently announced his nomination of biotech investor Jim O’Neill for the position of deputy secretary of the Health and Human Services department. This crucial role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of various sub-agencies within HHS, which are responsible for managing programs like Medicare and Medicaid, leading public health emergency preparedness efforts, shaping federal research initiatives, and more. O’Neill would work closely with Trump’s pick for HHS secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to ensure the health and well-being of all Americans, with a special focus on children.
O’Neill has a strong background in the biotech industry and is well-connected in the investment world, particularly through his relationship with billionaire Peter Thiel. He co-founded the Thiel Fellowship and served as a managing director at Thiel’s investment firm, Mithril Capital Management. O’Neill’s advocacy for longevity medicine and libertarian beliefs have shaped his career, as evidenced by his current position on the board of ADvantage Therapeutics, a biotech company developing therapies for Alzheimer’s disease.
Interestingly, O’Neill’s name had previously been considered for the role of Food and Drug Administration commissioner during the last Trump administration. His unconventional proposal to prioritize drug approval based solely on safety, rather than efficacy, set him apart as a radical choice for the position. Ultimately, Scott Gottlieb, a more traditional pick with a background in the drug industry, was selected instead.
In this new administration, Trump is opting for more anti-establishment figures for key positions. Alongside RFK Jr., a longtime vaccine critic, O’Neill is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Health and Human Services department. With RFK Jr. leading the charge for a healthier America, and figures like Johns Hopkins surgeon Marty Makary in the running for FDA commissioner, the healthcare landscape is set for significant changes.
O’Neill has been vocal about his support for RFK Jr.’s views on various health-related issues, including vaccine mandates, fluoride levels in drinking water, and the influence of the food industry on dietary guidelines. His past experience as a speechwriter and policy adviser at HHS during the George W. Bush administration has equipped him with valuable insights into pandemic preparedness, FDA reform, and public health strategies.
As the deputy secretary of HHS, O’Neill will need to undergo Senate confirmation, but his prior government experience may facilitate a smoother confirmation process. In the event that RFK Jr. faces challenges in gaining congressional approval, O’Neill could step in as acting secretary to ensure the department continues to function effectively. Trump’s nomination of O’Neill reflects a commitment to bringing diverse perspectives and innovative ideas to the forefront of healthcare policy-making.
