Trump Names Covid Lockdown Critic Dr. Jay Bhattacharya As Pick For NIH Director
## Trump Names Covid Lockdown Critic Dr. Jay Bhattacharya as Pick for NIH Director
Background
Dr. Bhattacharya is a professor of medicine at Stanford University and the director of the university's Center for Demography and Economics of Health and Aging. He is known for his research on the epidemiology of infectious diseases and has been a vocal critic of the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Facts and Latest Updates
Trump's announcement of Bhattacharya's appointment came as a surprise to many, as he had previously criticized the Trump administration's handling of the pandemic. However, Bhattacharya has said that he is eager to work with the administration to develop a more effective response to the crisis.
In a statement, Bhattacharya said that he is "honored and humbled" by the appointment and that he looks forward to "working with the dedicated scientists and staff at the NIH to advance our mission of improving the health of all Americans."
Analysis or Impact
Bhattacharya's appointment is likely to be controversial, as he has been a vocal critic of Covid-19 lockdowns. However, his appointment also suggests that the Trump administration is reconsidering its approach to the pandemic and may be willing to adopt a more targeted approach that focuses on protecting vulnerable populations rather than broad societal restrictions.
Experts say that Bhattacharya's appointment could have a significant impact on the NIH's research agenda and its role in the fight against COVID-19. It is possible that Bhattacharya will shift the NIH's focus towards more controversial areas of research, such as the potential benefits of herd immunity or the use of alternative treatments for COVID-19.
Conclusion
The appointment of Dr. Bhattacharya as Director of the NIH is a significant development that could have a major impact on the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to note that Bhattacharya's views are not shared by all experts and that his appointment is likely to be controversial. However, his appointment also suggests that the Trump administration is reconsidering its approach to the pandemic and may be willing to adopt a more targeted approach that focuses on protecting vulnerable populations rather than broad societal restrictions.