Rachel Levine becomes first transgender official confirmed by Senate

Background: Levine, who is a graduate of Harvard and Tulane Medical School, has helped lead Pennsylvania's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She previously served as the state's physician general.

What they're saying: “Dr. Rachel Levine will bring the steady leadership and essential expertise we need to get people through this pandemic — no matter their zip code, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability — and meet the public health needs of our country in this critical moment and beyond,” Biden said at the time of her nomination.

• “She is a historic and deeply qualified choice to help lead our administration’s health efforts,” he added.

Editor's note: This story has been updated throughout.