Eric Hargan Confirmed as Deputy Secretary of HHS, Designated Acting Secretary

Content From: HIV.govPublished: October 13, 20171 min read

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Photo of Eric Hargan
On October 4, 2017, the Senate confirmed Eric D. Hargan as the Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). He was sworn in to the Department’s number two leadership position the following day. On October 10, President Trump designated Mr. Hargan Acting Secretary.

Hargan, an attorney, served previously for four years in a variety of roles at HHS during the George W. Bush administration, including Deputy General Counsel, Principal Associate Deputy Secretary, and Acting Deputy Secretary. Since then, he has worked as an attorney in the healthcare sector in Chicago. (Read Mr. Hargan’s biography.)

In a message to HHS staff this week, Hargan said, “I look forward to working with all of you to advance the mission of HHS to enhance and protect the health and well-being of all Americans... As we move forward together, we will continue the excellent efforts of this Department in service to and support of healthier citizens, stronger communities, and a safer country.”

Hargan replaces Dr. Don Wright whom the President designated as Acting Secretary on September 29, 2017, following the resignation of HHS Secretary Tom Price. Wright continues to serve as Acting Assistant Secretary for Health, as well as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health and Director of the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, and acting Executive Director of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition.