Oz Nomination for CMS Advances Amid Political Tensions

The Senate Finance Committee has advanced Mehmet Oz's nomination to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services with a narrow 14-13 vote along party lines. Oz, a former heart surgeon and television personality, faced scrutiny regarding his views on Medicaid and potential conflicts of interest, but received support from committee Republicans who praised his qualifications. Despite his medical background, Democrats are concerned that Oz might not oppose Republican-backed Medicaid cuts. If confirmed, Oz would manage the $1.5 trillion budget that oversees healthcare for millions of Americans. His nomination reflects President Trump’s influence and his previous unsuccessful Senate bid, highlighting ongoing political tensions over healthcare management in the U.S.