Pod Save America Introducing: Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams
24 snips
Jan 1, 2025 Stacey Abrams chats with Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist and editor at KFF Health News, about the potential public health threats from the incoming Trump Administration. They delve into the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the urgent need to differentiate between public health and individual healthcare. Dr. Gounder emphasizes the role of citizens in advocating for informed health policies and critiques the growing skepticism towards science, all while stressing the necessity for grassroots activism to drive meaningful change.
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Science vs. Politics
- Science is often attacked by politicians when its conclusions are politically inconvenient.
- This prevents honest conversations about values and trade-offs.
Importance of Expertise in HHS
- HHS leadership doesn't require scientific expertise, but advisors with such expertise are crucial.
- Incoming administration's potential removal of civil service protections raises concerns about qualified advisors.
State and Local Public Health
- Public health powers reside at the state level, creating inconsistencies in data collection and responses.
- State-level funding and industry influence affect public health preparedness.