Hearings Set for Controversial Surgeon General Nominee

[babylonsister]

http://public.cq.com/docs/cqm/cqmidday110-000002544088.html

Hearings Set for Controversial Surgeon General Nominee

A Senate confirmation hearing has been scheduled for July 12 for President Bush’s nominee for surgeon general, who could face some pointed questioning about his views on gay rights issues.

The nominee, Dr. James W. Holsinger Jr., is a Kentucky cardiologist whose previous posts include running the Kentucky’s state health system and the University of Kentucky’s medical system.

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, which will hold the hearing, criticized the selection of Holsinger earlier this month saying his “record appears to guarantee a polarizing and divisive nomination process.”

Gay rights groups oppose Holsinger’s nomination, citing what they see as a history of anti-gay viewpoints.

Holsinger is president of the United Methodist Church’s Judicial Council, which makes decisions on interpretation of church rule and policy. Under his leadership, the church council has made several rulings against the inclusion of gay people in ministerial positions and membership in the church.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has said Holsinger is “focused on addressing the health of all in need, including gay and lesbian populations.”

[Quantess]

1. Kicking.

:scared:

[babylonsister]

2. I know; he's one scary dude. I hope the Dems are ready to slap him down. nt

[IChing]

3. What about a recess appointment- Congress is off from 7/1 -7/10?

Or does the 10 day rule work?