North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen is among the top contenders being considered by the incoming Biden administration to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Cohen brings a mix of experience in medicine, advocacy, education, and government. The New York native and doctor of internal medicine has become a household name appearing alongside Gov. Roy Cooper during dozens of coronavirus briefings this year.
She served in leadership roles at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. She has vocally called on federal agencies to do more to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
"While we continue to complete a high number of tests, that national shortage we're seeing in critical supplies has reemerged," said Cohen at a July press briefing. "And as a result, labs are taking longer to provide results. Federal action is needed."
Also in the running for the nation's top health position are former Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Cohen has held the top leadership position at North Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services since her appointment by Gov. Roy Cooper in January 2017.