Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on May 20, 2026 that Stephanie Haridopolos, a family medicine physician and senior adviser in the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General, will serve as interim surgeon general. Assistant Secretary for Health Brian Christine used delegation of authority powers to enable Haridopolos to carry out the duties until a Senate-confirmed nominee fills the position amid ongoing HHS leadership vacancies.
Interim surgeon general appointment
- ▪Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the interim surgeon general appointment in an email sent to staff late on May 20, 2026
- ▪Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. elevated Stephanie Haridopolos to serve as interim surgeon general until a Senate-confirmed nominee fills the position
- ▪Assistant Secretary for Health Brian Christine used delegation of authority powers to allow Stephanie Haridopolos to carry out the duties of surgeon general
Stephanie Haridopolos career background
- ▪Stephanie Haridopolos is a family medicine physician
- ▪Stephanie Haridopolos served as a senior adviser for the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General
Director health communications role
- ▪Stephanie Haridopolos became director of health communications for the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General
- ▪As director of health communications, Stephanie Haridopolos will promote U.S. Surgeon General public health actions, advisories, and guidance until the next Surgeon General is sworn into office
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