Biden names Dr. Rachel Levine for key health role, Historic pick of Transgender woman

Levine as assistant US Health Secretary

On Tuesday, US President-elect Joe Biden nominated Dr. Rachel Levine for the post of assistant US Health Secretary which is remarkable appointment made in context of upliftment of LGBTQ+ community. She will be the first openly transgender official to get confirmation from Senate for the post. Biden indeed adhered to his idea to incorporate every section of the United States in his administration so as to create a reflection of nation that people can confide in and their voices can be represented.

Biden chose Pennsylvania's top health official to serve such a key role in times of surging COVID 19 pandemic to abide by his pattern of appointing leaders from diverse backgrounds for primary roles in administration. Under the leadership of Head of US Department of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Levine will exercise her role as assistant US Health Secretary. She is a professor of pediatrics and psychiatry at Penn State Medical College and has led the strategic plan of Pennsylvania's response to combat coronavirus outbreak as top official.

During her appointment, Biden said, "Levine will bring steady leadership, stability and crucial expertise we require to sail through these difficult times, irrespective of zip code, race, colour, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability". Biden's transition team noted that she has been confirmed by Republican controlled Pennsylvania state for three times and if US Senate will approve of her then she will be first transgender official receiving approval from lawmakers.

"There is no better fit for this post owing to her qualifications, contributions and determination to lead the administration's health efforts", Biden said. Levine has expertise in opioid crisis, medical marijuana and LGBTQ+ medicines. She will join other health related nominees appointed to Biden's administration soon, including former food and Drug Administrator David Kessler. Handling the deteriorating health condition in covid 19 along with depression in the economy will be the foremost priorities of Biden after taking the office.