Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27), along with Reps. Barbara Lee (CA-13) and Ami Bera (CA-07), led a letter to Senate Majority Harry Leader Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell urging them to move quickly to confirm Dr. Vivek Murthy for Surgeon General of the United States. Over 90 Members of Congress joined in support of the letter, which cited the urgent needs for education about and a federal response to the epidemic of Ebola. Congresswoman Chu released the following statement:
“In addition to the everyday health risks Americans face, the spread of Ebola has become a global concern, necessitating a centralized response and the spread of information here at home. All of these needs could be met by a Surgeon General able to work with federal agencies, communicate with the American people, and serve as the face of public health. Yet this position has remained vacant for over a year. The Senate have before them a nominee, Dr. Vivek Murthy, who has extensive experience and the backing of more than 50 major health groups. Delaying his confirmation further at a time of such need is irresponsible. I join my colleagues in urging his quick confirmation.â€
Dr. Murthy was nominated by President Obama one year ago. A graduate of Harvard and Yale, Murthy currently works as an internal medicine physician at Brigham and Women’s hospital. If confirmed, he would be the first Indian-American Surgeon General.