Rachel Levine is a prominent American physician and government official who made history as the first openly transgender federal official to be confirmed by the Senate.
She was nominated by President Joe Biden and confirmed as the Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on March 24, 2021.
Prior to her appointment, she served as the Secretary of Health for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania from 2017 to 2021.
Who is Rachel Levine?
Levine has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and healthcare throughout her career. She is also a pediatrician and a professor of pediatrics and psychiatry at the Penn State College of Medicine.
Levine is known for her expertise in addiction medicine, eating disorders, and adolescent medicine.
Who is Rachel Levine’s wife?
The couple has been together for over three decades and got married in 2007. They have two adult children, a son and a daughter.
Martha Peaslee Levine was married to Rachel Levine, previously Richard Levine, who transitioned to Rachel in 2011.
Martha Levine and Rachel Levine divorced in 2013 but have maintained a great friendship. Currently, it is not known whether she is married or not.
Levine’s appointment as Assistant Secretary for Health sparked discussions about transgender rights and visibility in the United States. Her confirmation was hailed as a milestone for the LGBTQ+ community and a step towards greater representation in government.
Rachel Levine’s children
Levine and her Martha have two adult children, both of whom were born before Levine transitioned. While their names and personal lives have been kept private, it is known that they are supportive of their mother and her work.
Levine has spoken openly about her experience as a parent and the challenges of balancing her career with her family life.
In an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer, she said, “It’s always a balance between being a parent and being a professional. I think the key is to be present when you’re present.”
Levine’s appointment as Assistant Secretary for Health has also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by transgender parents and their children. She has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ families and has called for greater support and acceptance