Senior White House adviser Calley Means said Thursday that discussions are still ongoing as questions persist about whether his sister, surgeon general nominee Casey Means, has enough support in the Senate to secure confirmation.

During an appearance on NewsNation’s The Hill, Calley Means was asked whether the White House remains confident in Casey Means’ nomination, especially after President Donald Trump recently signaled he could reconsider it.

“We do expect her to move forward,” Means told host Blake Burman. “Casey is one of the most intelligent and articulate doctors in the country, and right now, we need someone willing to challenge the status quo.”

Casey Means’ nomination, first announced in May, has faced delays, with momentum slowing further after a contentious Senate committee hearing earlier this year.

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), who chairs the Senate Health Committee, has yet to schedule a confirmation vote. Even if one is held, her path remains uncertain. She is expected to need near-unanimous Republican support, though Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) and Susan Collins (Maine) have expressed reservations.

Despite the concerns, Calley Means rejected the idea that the nomination lacks sufficient backing.

“I wouldn’t characterize it that way,” he said. “These conversations are still happening.”

He also argued that his sister has been unfairly targeted in the media, adding that lawmakers are beginning to look past the criticism.

“Senators are recognizing the importance of having a surgeon general who is willing to think critically and address the root causes of chronic disease,” he said. “That’s why these discussions continue.”

Casey Means faced scrutiny during her confirmation hearing for not explicitly endorsing the measles vaccine. While she stated that vaccines “save lives” and are essential to public health, she stopped short of strongly urging parents to vaccinate their children.

She later clarified her position, saying she supports measles vaccination — aligning with the views of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Director Dr. Mehmet Oz.

Her qualifications have also been questioned. While the role of surgeon general has traditionally been held by a licensed practicing physician, Means completed medical school but did not finish a residency, which has drawn additional criticism.