Key Democratic senators are expressing concerns about Mehmet Oz’s past advocacy for Medicare privatization, specifically referring to his call in 2020 for putting all seniors into private insurance plans under Medicare Advantage. The senators, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, are seeking clarity from Oz, known as “Dr. Oz,” after President-elect Donald Trump nominated him to run the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
In a letter obtained by NBC News, the senators raised questions about Oz’s advocacy for eliminating Traditional Medicare and his financial ties to private health insurers, including his substantial stock holdings in UnitedHealth, the largest private insurer in Medicare Advantage. They also brought up a 2020 opinion piece co-written by Oz advocating for Medicare Advantage as a replacement for traditional Medicare.
During his 2022 Senate run, Oz supported expanding Medicare Advantage plans but did not call for ending traditional Medicare. The senators expressed skepticism about his position and potential financial conflicts of interest.
The letter from the Democrats previewed the confirmation process Oz will face in the Finance Committee, where Democrats will question him. The Democrats asked Oz directly if he would continue to support policies that eliminate Traditional Medicare and if he would commit to opposing any efforts to privatize or cut Medicare. They also inquired if he would divest his financial holdings in the insurance industry if confirmed as CMS Administrator.
With Republicans holding a majority in the Senate, Democrats would need at least four Republicans to vote against Oz to derail his nomination. Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter.
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