In a surprising turn of events, Democrat Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has indicated he would support Dr. Mehmet Oz, his former Republican rival, for the position of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administrator—on one condition. Fetterman, known for his sharp jabs at Oz during their 2022 Senate race, said his vote hinges on Oz’s commitment to protecting Medicare and Medicaid.
President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his intention to nominate Dr. Oz for the CMS role, highlighting Oz’s background in medicine and media as assets for the position. Trump praised Oz’s potential to bring innovation to the agency.
“Dr. Oz will be a leader in incentivizing Disease Prevention, so we get the best results in the World for every dollar we spend on Healthcare in our Great Country,” Trump said. He also emphasized Oz’s mission to cut waste and fraud in a program that represents a significant portion of the federal budget.
If Dr. Oz is about protecting and preserving Medicare and Medicaid, I’m voting for the dude. https://t.co/vededEgSuD
— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) November 19, 2024
Despite their contentious campaign history, Fetterman expressed openness to supporting Oz. “Our politics are obviously different, and we do have a history, but I don’t have any bitterness,” Fetterman said. “As long as he’s willing to protect and preserve Medicaid and Medicare, I’m voting for the dude.”
This stance underscores Fetterman’s focus on safeguarding the two programs, a priority he made central during his Senate race and throughout his time in office.
The nomination has drawn a mix of reactions across the political spectrum. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent figure who will work with Trump’s HHS team, welcomed Oz to what he called “The Avengers.”
The tongue-in-cheek nickname signals the Trump administration’s intent to build a team of unconventional leaders to tackle entrenched challenges in government agencies.
Very excited that my friend @DrOz has agreed to run CMS. Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this outstanding nomination. Welcome Dr. Oz to The Avengers. Let’s Make America Healthy Again! https://t.co/jjQoqoiZuC pic.twitter.com/e7CSkh5kem
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) November 19, 2024
For Fetterman, his support signals a willingness to reach across the aisle when critical programs are on the line. While critics may question whether Oz’s high-profile career equips him for the nuanced demands of CMS, his nomination has already prompted discussion about the future of Medicare and Medicaid under the Trump administration.
Fetterman and Oz’s Senate race was one of the most closely watched contests of 2022, marked by fiery debates and viral campaign moments—including Fetterman’s mockery of Oz over his now-infamous “crudité” comments. However, Fetterman’s readiness to support Oz, provided his conditions are met, shows a pragmatic side that could help define bipartisan efforts in a politically divided Senate.
