A top HHS nominee’s opposition to transgender treatments for children is shaking the foundations of federal health policy.

At a Glance

• Dr. Brian Christine, a nominee for Assistant Secretary for Health, opposes puberty blockers for minors.
• During his confirmation hearing, Christine advocated for counseling over medical interventions for gender dysphoria in children.
• The Trump administration seeks to reshape federal health policy with more conservative values.
• The Senate HELP Committee is considering Christine’s nomination amidst intense debate.

Dr. Brian Christine: A New Voice in Health Policy

Dr. Brian Christine, nominated by President Donald Trump for Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has sparked a fierce debate with his stance against medical interventions for minors experiencing gender dysphoria. At his confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Christine made it clear that he opposes puberty blockers and other gender-affirming treatments for children. Instead, he advocates for compassionate counseling and support, arguing that the majority of minors will no longer suffer from gender dysphoria by their late teens if treated with care and love.

“The way to treat minors is not with chemicals, puberty blockers, hormones, and surgeries that do irreversible damage; the best way to treat them is with counselling, compassion, and care.” 👏

– Dr. Brian Christine, President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary of Health.… pic.twitter.com/gJpxXfDwKY

— American Principles Project (@approject) July 16, 2025

Christine’s position aligns with the Trump administration’s broader efforts to reshape federal health policy. This initiative, dubbed “Make America Healthy Again,” aims to restore public trust in healthcare and expand access, particularly in rural areas. The administration’s approach has faced resistance from major medical organizations that support access to gender-affirming care under established guidelines. Critics argue that the long-term effects of such treatments are not fully understood, making counseling-based approaches a safer alternative for minors.

Watch: Opposition towards puberty blockers for minors

Senate Hearing Echoes Broader Debates

The Senate HELP Committee‘s July 16 hearing was a pivotal moment, highlighting the deep divides over transgender healthcare. Chaired by Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), the committee scrutinized Christine’s views on various health policy issues, including vaccines and gender dysphoria. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), who introduced Christine, praised his experience and dedication to rural healthcare. Tuberville and other supporters argue that Christine’s stance prioritizes safety and the ethical principle of “do no harm.”

Christine’s nomination is part of a larger trend under the Trump administration to appoint officials who align with conservative values. The administration’s focus on restricting gender-affirming care for minors reflects a growing movement among some policymakers to prioritize counseling and support over medical interventions. As Christine’s confirmation hangs in the balance, the stakes are high for both sides of the debate.

Implications for Transgender Youth and Healthcare Providers

If confirmed, Christine could implement new HHS guidelines that restrict the use of puberty blockers and other treatments for minors. Such changes could have significant implications for transgender youth and their families, potentially reducing access to gender-affirming care. Healthcare providers may face new regulatory constraints and ethical dilemmas, while advocacy groups on both sides are likely to intensify lobbying efforts.

The potential shifts in policy could lead to increased polarization over transgender rights and healthcare, impacting the political landscape as elections approach. The healthcare sector may see changes in clinical guidelines, insurance coverage, and provider liability, further complicating the landscape for transgender healthcare. As the debate continues, the future of healthcare for transgender minors remains uncertain.