Free Republic

After becoming the first transgender federal official to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Dr. Rachel Levine said she’s “humbled” and thankful for those who have fought for equality for decades. On Wednesday, the Senate confirmed Levine’s nomination to serve as U.S. assistant health secretary. Levine formerly served as Pennsylvania’s health secretary and stepped down when President Joe Biden nominated her for the federal post. Levine issued a statement thanking Biden for trusting her with the key position. She also thanked those who have supported her, particularly in the LGBTQ community. “As I prepare to take my oath of office...

HARRISBURG — Former Pennsylvania Health Secretary Rachel Levine is under pressure from U.S. House Republicans to provide more details about the state’s missing nursing home data ahead of her confirmation to a post in the Biden administration. At the same time, House and Senate Republicans are also calling on the state Department of Health to provide more details about its overall approach to nursing homes, citing Spotlight PA reporting on how historically weak oversight and failed plans hampered the response. Levine, who oversaw the state health department during the first year of the pandemic, was nominated by President Joe Biden...