GOP senator grills surgeon general nominee over her use of psychedelic drugs

Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) had some serious questions for surgeon general nominee Casey Means Wednesday during a Senate hearing over her open use of psychedelics.

Collins raised concerns during the hearing about Means' comments on psychedelic drugs, with the lawmaker citing how "

"This is a very important question, and I would start by just saying that I believe what I would say as a private citizen is in many cases different from what I would say as a public health official," Means said.

"Joining a team where the purpose of this role is to communicate the absolute best evidence-based science to the American people to keep them safe, thriving, and healthy," she added. "When it comes to psychedelic therapy for mental health issues, I think the science is still emerging. So it would certainly not be a recommendation to the American people to do that, under no circumstances. I do believe that there is exciting work being done in this area that needs to continue on psychedelic therapies for PTSD in veterans, for mental health issues. And some of the researchers who are doing this work have said it is the most promising and exciting of their entire career. I look forward to following that, but to be clear, under no circumstances would I recommend that to the American people in this role."

Collins again pressed her on what she meant by a voice saying "it's time to prepare" in her book.

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