Rachel Levine makes history as the first trans official confirmed by the Senate
Caroline Brehman/Pool via REUTERS
- Dr. Rachel Levine, a trans woman, has been confirmed as assistant secretary of health.
- In a 52-48 vote Wednesday, the Senate made history by confirming Levine.
- The confirmation makes Levine the highest-ranking out trans person in the federal government.
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The Senate made history Wednesday by confirming Dr. Rachel Levine as US assistant secretary of health in a 52-48 vote.
Levine is now the highest-ranking out trans person in the federal government.
She previously served as Pennsylvania's secretary of health where she led the COVID-19 response in the commonwealth.
In a January statement about her nomination, President Joe Biden said she was a "historic and deeply qualified choice to help lead out administration's health efforts."
"Dr. Rachel Levine will bring the steady leadership and essential expertise we need to get people through this pandemic - no matter their zip code, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability - and meet the public health needs of our country in this critical moment and beyond," Biden said in a statement.
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