Surgeon general confirmed

? The Senate confirmed Dr. Richard Carmona as surgeon general Tuesday without opposition or debate, clearing the way for the Arizona trauma surgeon to take the post.

Carmona succeeds Dr. David Satcher, whose term expired in February.

The surgeon general has a tiny staff, must rely on other agencies for his budget and holds little power. But the position has proved over the years to be a powerful bully pulpit for disseminating public health information.

At his confirmation hearing, Carmona, an Arizona trauma surgeon and part-time sheriff’s deputy, promised to promote prevention of disease. He said he also is well-suited to help in the preparation to combat bioterrorism.

A vote Tuesday to limit debate over his nomination was approved 98-0. He was then confirmed on a voice vote.