US journal denounces move to block nomination of Vivek Murthy for US Surgeon General

In its editorial, the Journal alleged that 10 Senate Democrats were apparently prepared by NRA to vote against Murthy’s confirmation because he supported Obama’s move against gun-culture in the US.

“The NRA opposes Murthy solely on the grounds that he has advocated reasonable and mainstream forms of gun regulation, including an assault-weapons ban, a limit on ammunition sales, and required safety training. Given that there are more than 30,000 firearm deaths in the US each year, Murthy’s views on potential safeguards are unsurprising,” the editorial said.

This is the first time the NRA has flexed its political muscle over the appointment of a surgeon general even though the surgeon general has no authority over firearm regulation.

Murthy has already said in his testimony before the Senate HELP Committee that if confirmed, his principal focus will be on the national problem of obesity prevention not firearm policy.

The journal said blocking Murthy’s nomination demonstrates of how much political power our legislators have ceded to the NRA.

“With the record of past surgeons general as their guide, senators should do what is right for the health of the country by confronting the NRA and voting their own conscience. Murthy is an accomplished physician, policymaker, leader and entrepreneur. He deserves the President’s continued backing and should be confirmed,” it said.

Boston-based Murthy, 36, if confirmed by the US Senate, would be the first Indian-American and the youngest ever to occupy the top position.