AIDS and gay groups oppose Bush's nominee for surgeon general

The nomination of James Holsinger to be surgeon general of the United States is drawing mounting opposition from AIDS and gay groups. That may lead to particularly contentious confirmation hearings because the leading Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama sit on the Senate health committee that will review the nomination.

President George Bush nominated Dr Holsinger on 24 May, a Thursday afternoon before a long holiday weekend that marks the unofficial start of the summer holiday season and a timing often used to minimise media attention.

Dr Holsinger's paper credentials make him eminently suitable for the position of chief public health officer—a medical degree from Duke University; a masters degree in hospital financial management from the University …