Treasury and Other Trump Nominees, Fluoride Policy in Florida

Summary

Up First from NPR – Detailed Summary Episode: Treasury and Other Trump Nominees, Fluoride Policy in Florida
Release Date: November 23, 2024

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Introduction

In this episode of NPR's Up First, hosts Ayesha Rascoe and Scott Simon delve into the latest developments surrounding President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet nominations and a significant policy shift in Florida regarding water fluoridation. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of Trump's key nominees, the implications of their potential appointments, and the controversy surrounding Florida's Surgeon General's recent stance on fluoride in drinking water.

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President Trump's Cabinet Nominees

1. Treasury Secretary Nomination: Scott Besant

Background and Qualifications

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Scott Besant, a hedge fund manager, for the position of Treasury Secretary. Scott Besant, formerly associated with Democratic donor George Soros, has emerged as a pivotal Trump advisor over the past year. Despite his Democratic ties, Besant has been a vocal supporter of Trump's populist economic policies, particularly advocating for tariffs and tax cuts.

Expected Policies and Impact

Ron Elving, NPR senior editor and correspondent, highlights that Besant’s appointment is significant as the Treasury Secretary role is one of the original Cabinet positions established by George Washington. Besant is expected to spearhead the imposition of tariffs on foreign goods, especially from China, aligning with Trump's economic agenda. Additionally, he aims to renew Trump's 2017 tax cuts, which are set to expire at the end of 2025.

Notable Quotes:

• Elving: “Treasury is the crown jewel in this collection... He'll be in charge of imposing tariffs that Donald Trump insists he wants to have on foreign goods, especially from China.” (03:41)
• Scott Horsley, NPR Chief Economics Correspondent: “He's been a big cheerleader for the Trump agenda... Besin is originally from South Carolina, and he and his husband spend most of their time there.” (07:25)

Reception and Confirmation Prospects

Scott Besant is anticipated to receive a favorable response from the GOP-controlled Congress, facilitating a smoother confirmation process. However, his advocacy for extending tax cuts and implementing tariffs may face scrutiny regarding their long-term impact on the federal debt, which has surpassed $36 trillion. Moreover, Besant's stance on deregulation and domestic energy production is likely to resonate with the new Republican majority.

Potential Challenges:

• Tariffs and Trade Policies: Besant defends Trump's tariff proposals, though economists warn they might increase costs for U.S. businesses and consumers. Interestingly, Besant has suggested that Trump views tariffs as bargaining chips rather than firm protectionist measures.

  • Horsley: “Besant doesn't seem to be a dyed in the wool protectionist... My general view is that at the end of the day, he's a free trader.” (08:51)

• Relationship with the Federal Reserve: The Treasury Secretary typically collaborates closely with the Federal Reserve. Trump's strained relationship with Fed Chairman Jerome Powell could lead to potential friction. Besant has previously hinted at undermining Powell by suggesting a shadow Fed chairman, although he later retracted this statement.

  • Horsley: “That could be a source of some friction... Powell is a staunch defender of the Fed's independence.” (09:27)

2. Other Key Nominees

Labor Secretary: Lori Chavez-DeRemer

Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a Republican member of the House from Oregon who recently lost her reelection bid, has been nominated for Labor Secretary. Backed by Teamsters President Sean O'Brien, she is regarded as the most pro-labor candidate for the position. Her nomination signals a potential shift in labor policies, emphasizing support for unions and workers' rights.

Attorney General: Matt Gaetz Withdraws

Representative Matt Gaetz has withdrawn his candidacy for Attorney General amid a prolonged House Ethics Committee investigation involving serious allegations such as sexual misconduct and obstructing government investigations. His withdrawal underscores the limitations of Trump's influence over Republican affiliates, even during the administration's formation.

Replacement Nominee: Pam Bondi

Trump has nominated Pam Bondi, the former Florida Attorney General, to replace Gaetz. Bondi has longstanding political connections and was part of Trump's defense team during his first impeachment trial. Reports suggest that Bondi may aim to purge the Justice Department of attorneys involved in cases against Trump, aligning with his combative stance towards federal investigations.

Notable Quotes:

• Elving: “Matt Gaetz stepped out so as not to be a distraction... It could worsen some of Hegseth's other issues.” (04:43)
• Horsley: “He [Besant] has been writing op-eds in the Wall Street Journal and on the Fox News website.” (07:29)

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Fluoride Policy in Florida

1. Surgeon General's New Guidelines

Dr. Joseph Latapo, Florida's Surgeon General, announced new guidelines advising communities to cease adding fluoride to public drinking water. While acknowledging fluoride's benefits in preventing tooth decay, Latapo expressed concerns over potential health risks associated with excessive fluoride intake.

Notable Quotes:

• Elving: “That's up first for Saturday, November 23rd.” (13:38)
• Colombini: “Dr. Latapo believes that the risks of any added fluoride outweigh the established benefits...” (11:17)

2. Rationale Behind the Decision

Latapo cited recent studies linking high fluoride exposure to lower IQ in children and referenced a federal toxicology report indicating moderate confidence in these associations at fluoride levels twice the US recommended standards. He argues that with the availability of additional fluoride sources, continued water fluoridation constitutes public health malpractice.

Controversial Points:

• Scientific Consensus vs. New Guidelines: Despite decades of research supporting fluoride's efficacy in preventing dental cavities, emerging studies have prompted reevaluation of its safety at certain levels.
  • Horsley: “Fluoride has been researched for more than 80 years, and the overwhelming credible scientific evidence consistently indicates that fluoridation... is safe at optimal levels.” (12:25)

Notable Quotes:

• Colombini: “It's public health malpractice to continue adding fluoride to community water systems...” (11:17)
• Horsley: “...the overwhelming credible scientific evidence consistently indicates that fluoridation of community water supply is safe at optimal levels.” (12:36)

3. Reactions from the Community and Experts

The announcement has sparked a divided response. While some community members support Latapo’s recommendations, professionals in the dental and pediatric fields strongly oppose the move. Dr. Jeff Ottley, President of the Florida Dental Association, emphasizes the critical role of water fluoridation, especially for families unable to afford regular dental care.

Notable Quotes:

• Colombini: “I’ve also talked to dentists and pediatricians who strongly oppose it...” (12:25)
• Ottley: “Fluoridation is critical, especially for families who can't afford to go to the dentist.” (12:51)

4. Future Implications and National Outlook

The policy shift in Florida may set a precedent for other states, especially with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. poised to become Trump's nominee for Health and Human Services Secretary. Kennedy has expressed intentions to issue similar guidance on fluoride, potentially catalyzing a nationwide reevaluation of water fluoridation practices.

Notable Quotes:

• Colombini: “This debate is happening nationally, especially now that Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Is President elect Trump's pick for health and Human services secretary.” (13:02)

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Conclusion

This episode of Up First provides a comprehensive overview of President-elect Donald Trump's strategic nominations for key Cabinet positions and the significant policy change regarding fluoride in Florida's water supply. Scott Besant's nomination as Treasury Secretary underscores Trump's commitment to his economic agenda, while the withdrawal of Matt Gaetz highlights the complexities within the incoming administration's choices. Concurrently, Florida's Surgeon General's stance on fluoride represents a potential shift in public health policy, reflecting broader national debates that may influence future federal health directives under Kennedy's anticipated leadership.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ayesha Rascoe [00:03]: “President elect Donald Trump has announced his choice for Treasury Secretary.”

• Scott Simon [00:44]: “That's despite decades of research that shows the mineral helps prevent tooth decay.”

• Ron Elving [03:41]: “Treasury is the crown jewel in this collection... He'll be in charge of imposing tariffs that Donald Trump insists he wants to have on foreign goods, especially from China.”

• Scott Horsley [07:25]: “He's been a big cheerleader for the Trump agenda... Besin is originally from South Carolina, and he and his husband spend most of their time there.”

• Ron Elving [04:43]: “Matt Gaetz stepped out so as not to be a distraction... It could worsen some of Hegseth's other issues.”

• Horsley [09:27]: “That could be a source of some friction... Powell is a staunch defender of the Fed's independence.”

• Stephanie Colombini [11:17]: “Dr. Latapo believes that the risks of any added fluoride outweigh the established benefits...”

• Dr. Jeff Ottley [12:51]: “Fluoridation is critical, especially for families who can't afford to go to the dentist.”

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This summary encapsulates the essential discussions and insights from the episode, providing a clear and informative overview for listeners and non-listeners alike.

Transcript

[Ayesha Rascoe]

President elect Donald Trump has announced his choice for Treasury Secretary.

[Scott Simon]

Scott Besant, a hedge fund manager, will be expected to try to sell Trump's populism to Wall Street.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

I'm Ayesha Rasca.

[Scott Simon]

And I'm Scott Simon. And this is up first from NPR News. Scott Besant once had ties to Democrats but has emerged as a key Trump advisor in the past year.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

He's defended tariffs, which many in the business community oppose.

[Scott Simon]

Plus, Trump's nominees for several other top positions.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

And Florida's surgeon general urges communities to stop adding fluoride to their drinking water.

[Scott Simon]

That's despite decades of research that shows the mineral helps prevent tooth decay.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Stay with us. We have the news you need to start your weekend.

[Unknown]

Support for this podcast. And the following message come from Saatva. Saatva luxury mattresses are every bit as elegant as the most expensive brands, but because they're sold online, they're about half the price. Visit s a tva.com npr and save up to $600. This message comes from BetterHelp. It's important to take time to show gratitude towards others, but it's equally important to thank yourself. Life throws a lot of curveballs, and being grateful isn't always easy. Therapy can help remind you of all that you're worthy of and all that you do have. Let the gratitude flow with BetterHelp. [e-mail] NPRtoday to get 10% off your first month support for NPR. And the following message come from Fisher Investments. SVP Judy Abrams shares how their fiduciary duty comes to life while helping clients plan for retirement.

[Ron Elving]

As a fiduciary, we must make decisions.

[Stephanie Colombini]

In our clients best interest.

[Ron Elving]

So we work with them in consultation to be on a glide path. So when they want the option to retire, that portfolio is still going to.

[Stephanie Colombini]

Keep working for them at this stage of life.

[Unknown]

Learn [e-mail] Investing in securities involves the risk of loss.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

One top Trump nominee for a Cabinet position has withdrawn, but the president elect.

[Scott Simon]

Has put forth a replacement, and he's.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Named picks for many other offices at a rapid rate, all with plenty of time before inauguration.

[Scott Simon]

NPR senior editor and correspondent Ron Elving joins us. Ron, good to have you.

[Ron Elving]

Good to be with you, Scott.

[Scott Simon]

Several Cabinet nominations last night, Treasury, Labor, More which name stood out to you?

[Ron Elving]

Treasury is the crown jewel in this collection. It's one of the original four Cabinet positions, all the way back to George Washington. Choosing Alexander Hamilton. Trump has chosen billionaire hedge fund manager Scott Besant. Most people have not heard of him but that's going to change. He's going to be in charge of imposing tariffs that Donald Trump insists he wants to have on foreign goods, especially from China. And he'll also be pushing the renewal of Trump's tax cuts from 2017, which are about to expire at the end of 2025. The new boss at the Office of Management and Budget is Russell Vogt. Not a surprise. He had the job for a while in the first Trump term. He's one of the prime authors of the Project 2025 agenda. That's what the conservative Heritage foundation produced as a blueprint for a second Trump term. Trump himself disavowed that document many times during the campaign, but we've already seen some of its authors entering his new administration and Vote in particular will be in a key position to change the way the federal government does business.

[Scott Simon]

What about Labor Secretary Lori Chavez?

[Ron Elving]

De Reimer is a Republican member of the House from Oregon who just lost her reelection bid earlier this month, so she will be available in January. She had the backing of Teamsters president Sean O'Brien and was seen as the most pro labor of the prospects for this job. You may remember O'Brien addressing the GOP.

[Scott Simon]

Convention last summer and housing at Urban Development.

[Ron Elving]

Scott Turner was in the first Trump White House. He was director of the Opportunity Revitalization Council there. His job was helping attract business investment to depressed urban areas. Before that, he played for several teams over a nine year career in the National Football League.

[Scott Simon]

Matt Gaetz this week pulled himself out of consideration for attorney General. Of course, he was the subject of a prolonged House Ethics Committee investigation with very serious allegations including sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, obstructing government investigations. What does his decision to remove himself from the process tell us now?

[Ron Elving]

For the moment, it suggests there is a limit to what Trump can demand from Republicans, even in this, his moment of maximum triumph. Gates said he stepped out so as not to be a distraction. But it's widely reported Trump called Gates the morning he withdrew and told him the votes just weren't there in the Senate to confirm him. But we don't know if this Gates case was a one off or if it established some kind of precedent by which the Senate will try to push back again. Trump quickly replaced Gates with former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. They have appointed political connection going back a decade and more. She was mentioned for this job eight years ago and she was on Trump's defense team during his first impeachment trial. The Washington Post is reporting that Trump plans to have Bondi clean out all the justice attorneys who built the criminal cases against him.

[Scott Simon]

Ron Police in Monterey, California, have shared with news organizations, including npr, the report of the accusation of sexual assault against Pete Hegseth, who, of course, is Mr. Trump's nominee for secretary of defense. Do you see this as affecting his nomination bid?

[Ron Elving]

It's hard to see how it wouldn't one way or another. But the police have also said that allegation in 2017 was investigated and no charges resulted. Trump personally does not seem to be overly troubled by such controversies, whether his own or those of his nominees. But it could worsen some of Hegseth's other issues. He has been openly hostile to the idea of women in combat and critical of the Navy act, who is now the first woman to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Hegseth is a decorated veteran and a commentator on Fox News, but he does not have any relevant administrative or political experience for one of the toughest jobs in any government.

[Scott Simon]

And Trump has indicated he wants to nominate Linda McMahon to lead the US Department of Education. She is the wife and business partner of Vince McMahon, the CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment. Mr. Trump says he wants to shut down the Department of Education. How is this nomination being received?

[Ron Elving]

If you watched the Republican National Convention, you know that Trump's connection to the world of professional wrestling has been important to his political Persona and outreach. It might not seem to have much to do with education, but as you say, the Department of Education is one Republicans regularly suggest should not exist at all. It annually funnels billions to schools and students. But Republicans say that could all be handled directly with the state and local governments.

[Scott Simon]

Ron Elving, thanks so much.

[Ron Elving]

Thank you, Scott.

[Scott Simon]

For more background on Trump's treasury pick Scott Besant, we turn to NPR chief economics correspondent Scott Horsley. Scott, thanks for being with us.

[Scott Horsley]

Good morning. Happy to be here.

[Scott Simon]

And what can you tell us about Scott Besant?

[Scott Horsley]

Well, he's not super well known. He runs a hedge fund, the Key Square Group. He also spent a number of years working for billionaire Democratic donor George Soros. In fact, when he went into and launched his own fund, Soros was an investor. But he has been a big cheerleader for the Trump agenda. He's been writing op EDS in the Wall Street Journal and on the Fox News website. He's also a longtime friend of Vice President elect J.D. vance. Trump has described Besin as one of the top analysts on Wall street and a nice looking guy, too. He does have a sort of distinguished silver haired gravitas that Trump often looks for. Besant is originally from South Carolina, and he and his husband spend most of their time there.

[Scott Simon]

What kind of reception is Scott Besant likely to get in the Capitol?

[Scott Horsley]

Well, he'll probably get a friendly reception from the new GOP Congress. If he's confirmed one of his first jobs will be getting an extension of Trump's 2017 tax cuts, parts of which are set to expire next year. He'll likely be pushing on an open door when it comes to cutting taxes, although that would probably add to the federal debt, which we learned just yesterday has now surpassed $36 trillion. Besin has also championed Trump's call for deregulation and for increased domestic energy production as a way to bring down costs.

[Scott Simon]

Of course, tariffs are another big part of Trump's economic platform. What has Scott Besant said about that?

[Scott Horsley]

Yeah, Besant has defended Trump's proposal to slap taxes on all imports, even though most economists say that would likely raise prices for US Businesses and consumers. Unlike some of the others in Trump's orbit, though, Besant doesn't seem to be a dyed in the wool protectionist. In an interview with the Financial Times last month, he suggested that Trump views tariffs as a bargain bargaining chip and said, my general view is that at the end of the day, he's a free trader, so we'll see about that.

[Scott Simon]

Of course, the treasury secretary typically works closely with the Federal Reserve. What do you foresee there?

[Scott Horsley]

Yeah, that could be a source of some friction. You know, Trump has frequently criticized the Fed chairman, Jerome Powell, even though he appointed him to the chairman's post. Trump thinks Powell and his colleagues were too quick to raise interest rates the last time Trump was in the White House and too quick to lower interest rates. In the run up to this fall's election, the Fed is supposed to be insulated from political pressure from the White House, but Trump has repeatedly flouted that norm. And Bessin went so far as to suggest that Trump name a shadow Fed chairman to sort of undermine Powell, although he later walked that back. Now Powell is set to remain as fed chairman into 2026 and says he's not going anywhere. Powell is a staunch defender of the Fed's independence. He's also a savvy politician, though, and he's trying very hard not to antagonize the incoming administration.

[Scott Simon]

Npr, Scott Horsley, thanks so much.

[Scott Horsley]

You're welcome.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

For decades, water systems have been adding fluoride to water to prevent tooth decay.

[Scott Simon]

But yesterday, the Florida surgeon General issued guidance opposing the practice.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

It's a radical policy change that's Also on the agenda for Donald Trump's pick for health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

[Scott Simon]

Reporter Stephanie Colombini from member station WUSF in Tampa joins us now. Stephanie, thanks for being with us.

[Stephanie Colombini]

Glad to be here.

[Scott Simon]

And tell us about what's happened now in Florida.

[Stephanie Colombini]

So yesterday morning, the Surgeon General here, Dr. Joseph Latapo, announced new guidelines and they advised communities not to add fluoride to public drinking supplies. You know, Latipo did acknowledge fluoride is good for your teeth, but he's concerned about other possible health effects.

[Scott Simon]

Like what?

[Stephanie Colombini]

He talked about some recent studies that suggest exposure to high levels of fluoride is associated with lower IQ in kids. And there's a federal toxicology report, and researchers said they have moderate confidence there is a link, but they say that's for fluoride levels twice as high as what the US Recommends. And there's also decades of research that show water fluoridation cuts cavities in children and adults and saves billions in dental spending. But Latapo believes that the risks of any added fluoride outweigh the established benefits, especially for some groups in this day and age with the additional sources of fluoride that people have access to, it is public health malpractice to continue adding fluoride to community water systems that pregnant women and children have access to. That's him speaking on local station Fox 13 in Winter Haven. And that city voted a couple weeks ago to stop adding fluoride to the water supply.

[Scott Simon]

As you mentioned, fluoride levels in a lot of these studies have been higher than what's recommended for US Drinking water. Given that, what's been the reaction?

[Stephanie Colombini]

Well, some support Latipo's recommendation, but I've also talked to dentists and pediatricians who strongly oppose it, including Dr. Jeff Ottley, President of the Florida Dental Association.

[Scott Horsley]

Fluoride has been researched for more than 80 years, and the overwhelming credible scientific evidence consistently indicates that fluoridation of community water supply is safe at optimal levels.

[Unknown]

And effective at preventing and repairing tooth.

[Stephanie Colombini]

Decay and at a safe level in water. Ottley says fluoridation is critical, especially for families who can't afford to go to the dentist.

[Scott Simon]

Stephanie, what happens next in Florida?

[Stephanie Colombini]

Well, it is still up to local governments to decide how to handle this. But, you know, an official recommendation from the health department does add pressure, and a handful of communities were already taking steps to stop adding fluoride to the water so more could follow suit. And then this debate is happening nationally, especially now that Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Is President elect Trump's pick for health and Human services secretary. He wants to issue similar guidance.

[Scott Simon]

Stephanie Colombini with member station wusf, thanks so much for being with us.

[Stephanie Colombini]

You're welcome.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

And that's up first for Saturday, November 23rd. I'm Aisha Roscoe.

[Scott Simon]

And I'm Scott Simon.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Our producer is Danny Hensel with help from Andrew Craig, Elena Torick and Martin Patience.

[Scott Simon]

Our director is Michael Radcliffe.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Our editors are Dee Parvas, Carrie Feibel, Cara Platoni, Shannon Rose and Matthew Sherman.

[Scott Simon]

Hannah Glovna is our technical director, with engineering support from Neisha Hines, Andy Huether and Arthur Halliday Laurent.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Evie Stone is our senior supervising editor. Sarah Lucy Oliver is our executive producer.

[Scott Simon]

And Jim Cain is our deputy managing editor.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Tomorrow on the Sunday story, how does a disagreement turn into a tearful argument? We'll hear about what happens in our brains during verbal conflict and how we can navigate those situations without losing control.

[Scott Simon]

Alicia, how can you say that? And for more news, interviews, sports and music, you can tune into Weekend Edition on your radio. Go to stations.NPR.org to find your local NPR station.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Scott, we me and you can really show how to talk without conflict, because I feel like that's what we do every Saturday and Sunday.

[Scott Simon]

Oh, that was beautiful.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Yes.

[Scott Simon]

That has my heartwarming endorsement.

[Ayesha Rascoe]

Yes.

[Unknown]

Want to hear this podcast without sponsor breaks? Amazon prime members can listen to Up First Sponsor free through Amazon Music. Or you can also support NPR's vital journalism and get up first [e-mail] that's plus.NPR.org this message comes from Warby Parker. What makes a great pair of glasses at Warby Parker? It's all the invisible extras without the extra cost, like free adjustments for life. Find your [e-mail] or visit one of their hundreds of stores around the country. This message comes from Warby Parker. What makes a great pair of glasses at Warby Parker? It's all the invisible extras without the extra cost, like free adjustments for life. Find your [e-mail] or visit one of their hundreds of stores around the country.