Summary:
Dr. Casey Means cofounded Levels, a biowearables startup, before being nominated as Surgeon General
Levels received $12 million in seed funding from a16z, highlighting its potential in health tech
Means's cofounder, Sam Corcos, is now a key figure in DOGE's controversial "mega API" project
The nomination underscores the growing intersection between startup culture and political appointments
The story raises questions about data privacy and the role of tech entrepreneurs in government
Before her nomination as Surgeon General by Donald Trump, Dr. Casey Means was deeply involved in the healthcare startup ecosystem. She cofounded Levels, a biowearables and health-tracking company, with Sam Corcos, a tech entrepreneur now pivotal in DOGE's efforts to dismantle the IRS.
The Rise of Levels
Launched in 2019, Levels initially focused on a blood glucose tracker linked to a $400-per-month subscription app. The startup quickly garnered attention and funding, including a $12 million seed round led by Andreesen-Horowitz's a16z. Marc Andreesen, a Trump advisor, praised Levels for its innovative approach to merging technology with health and fiscal solutions.
A Partnership with Political Undertones
Means and Corcos's collaboration extends beyond Levels. They've co-hosted podcasts, shared authorship on the company blog, and frequently promote each other's work. Their partnership highlights the intersection of health tech and political movements, with Corcos now leading controversial projects at DOGE, including a "mega API" for taxpayer data.
The Surgeon General Nomination
Means's nomination came as a surprise, replacing Dr. Janette Nesheiwat last minute. Her ties to the MAHA movement and association with figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. underscore the political dimensions of her appointment. Meanwhile, Corcos's role at DOGE raises questions about the privacy and security of consolidating taxpayer data.
This story sheds light on how startup founders can transition into significant political roles, blurring the lines between technology, health, and governance.
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