President Donald J. Trump has nominated Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Alex Adams to serve as Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The nomination was submitted to the U.S. Senate on Monday.
Adams has led Idaho’s largest state agency since June 2024. Prior to this role, he served as Idaho Governor Brad Little’s budget director and held several other positions in state government, including leadership at the Idaho Board of Pharmacy and interim director of the Idaho Public Charter School Commission.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), will review Adams’ nomination. In a statement, Crapo highlighted Adams’ service in Idaho and expressed support for a timely confirmation process.
Governor Little also issued a statement, recognizing Adams for his strategic approach and contributions to initiatives such as regulatory reform, tax policy, education, and workforce development. According to Little, Adams prioritized improving Idaho’s foster care system during his time at the health department.
As director, Adams oversees a department with a budget exceeding $5 billion, largely funded through federal programs. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, public health services, long-term care oversight, child welfare programs, and services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Adams holds a Doctor of Pharmacy and bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo, as well as a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University. He previously served as Vice President of Pharmacy Programs for the National Association of Chain Drug Stores.
Confirmation hearing details have not yet been announced. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and HHS declined to comment on the nomination.
