Admiral Rachel Levine’s Portrait Controversy Sparks Debate

Admiral Rachel Levine, a prominent figure in U.S. public health and the highest-ranking openly transgender federal official, has become the center of controversy following a modification to her official portrait at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The change, which involved altering the nameplate beneath her portrait to reflect her former name, has drawn criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates and reignited discussions about her significant role in government.

Levine’s portrait is displayed in the Humphrey Building, alongside photographs of past leaders of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. The alteration was first reported by NPR and occurred during a federal shutdown. The decision to change her nameplate from “Rachel” to her deadname has been criticized as an act of bigotry.

Adrian Shanker, Levine’s spokesperson and former deputy assistant secretary for health policy in the Biden administration, condemned the action, stating, “It was an honor to serve the American people as the assistant secretary for health, and I’m not going to comment on this type of petty action.” Shanker characterized the change as a “petty” act rooted in discrimination against Levine.

HHS Responds to Criticism

In defense of the modification, HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon emphasized that the department aims to align its communications with “gold standard science.” He asserted, “Our priority is ensuring that the information presented internally and externally by HHS reflects gold standard science.” Nixon stated that the department is committed to reversing harmful policies enacted during Levine’s tenure, emphasizing a focus on “biological reality” in public health.

Levine, born on October 28, 1957, in Wakefield, Massachusetts, has had a distinguished career in public health. She served as the Assistant Secretary for Health from 2021 to 2025 and was the first openly transgender person in U.S. history to hold a Senate-confirmed federal position. Her contributions to public health include leading Pennsylvania’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and shaping policies on opioids, HIV/AIDS prevention, and adolescent health.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Before her appointment in the Biden administration, Levine held key roles in Pennsylvania, including Physician General and Secretary of Health. Her leadership was marked by a commitment to addressing health disparities, particularly among LGBTQ+ individuals. She has persistently advocated for the rights of LGBTQ+ people and has spoken out against measures that restrict their rights.

Levine transitioned in 2011 and has emphasized the importance of visibility and acceptance for transgender individuals. She has served on the board of Equality Pennsylvania, further advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Her historic appointment as a four-star admiral marked a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in the U.S. military.

The controversy surrounding her portrait serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the public sphere. As discussions about identity and recognition continue, Admiral Levine’s legacy as a trailblazer in public health remains influential.