Trump nominates IN doctor for Surgeon General

If confirmed by the Senate, Dr. Jerome Adams will go from being the Indiana Health Commissioner to the nation’s chief doctor.

President Trump announced on Thursday that he is nominating Adams for the job.

Adams was appointed state health commissioner back in 2014 by then-Governor Mike Pence.

Earlier this year, Governor Eric Holcomb reappointed him.

Adams is a strong supporter of allowing needle-exchange programs in Indiana counties.

He lobbied for it to fight a 2015 HIV outbreak in the state.

He is also an anesthesiologist and has taught at the Indiana University School of Medicine.

Adams will have to be confirmed by the Senate.

Senator Todd Young, Republican of Indiana, said in a statement Thursday:

“The President would be hard-pressed to find a more exceptional person for this position…I look forward to voting to confirm him.”

And Senator Joe Donnelly, Democrat of Indiana, said in a statement:

“I have worked closely with Dr. Adams for several years on efforts to respond to the opioid abuse and heroin use epidemics across Indiana. He has been a willing partner, and I look forward to talking with him about his priorities for the Surgeon General position.”

Brian Tabor, president of the Indiana Hospital Association, also issued a statement:

“Dr. Jerome Adams has served with distinction and has been a tireless champion of patients and public health…We know that his passion and vision for a healthier Indiana will benefit all Americans in this new role.”

Governor Holcomb released the following statement:

"Dr. Jerome Adams is a dedicated champion for overall health and wellness and genuinely cares about citizens in every corner of our state. I’m delighted President Trump seeks to bring another Hoosier to Washington, D.C.”