The sudden exit of CDC director Susan Monarez after just one month in office has sent shockwaves through the US public health system. Monarez, a long-time federal scientist nominated by President Donald Trump, accused Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of “weaponising public health” in her parting statement.
The White House confirmed that Monarez was fired for being “not aligned with the president’s agenda”, while her lawyers argued she had refused to endorse “unscientific, reckless directives.” Her dismissal has triggered a wave of resignations among senior officials, deepening concerns over the future of the nation’s top disease control body.
Senior Leaders Step Down
At least three high-ranking CDC officials resigned within hours of Monarez’s departure. Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry warned of the “rise of misinformation” around vaccines, while Demetre Daskalakis, head of immunisation programmes, cited frustration over “the ongoing weaponising of public health.” Reports also indicate that Jennifer Layden, who led the CDC’s data and technology office, has quit.
These resignations follow recent layoffs of nearly 600 staff members, including experts on infectious disease response and environmental health. Critics argue the agency’s ability to respond to health crises is being severely weakened.
Policy Shifts Under RFK Jr.
Kennedy, a long-time vaccine sceptic, has taken a hard stance on immunisations since becoming Health Secretary. The FDA’s latest Covid vaccine approval came with strict limits, restricting doses mainly to seniors and high-risk groups. Kennedy announced on X that the broad emergency authorisations used in the past had been rescinded.
Monarez, the first CDC director in 50 years without a medical degree, had clashed with Kennedy over vaccine strategy. Her leadership was tested early when the CDC’s Atlanta headquarters was attacked by a gunman angry about Covid vaccines, an incident that left one officer dead.
Fallout and Public Concerns
The leadership crisis has raised alarms among health experts who fear political interference could erode trust in science-based policymaking. Former and current employees have accused Kennedy of fueling hostility toward healthcare workers with his rhetoric, while unions warned that staff cuts undermine vital disease control efforts.
Monarez’s dismissal leaves the CDC at a crossroads. With multiple resignations, public health authority weakened, and vaccine policy under fierce debate, the agency faces one of the most turbulent moments in its history.
The CDC director fired controversy underscores the growing clash between politics and science in America’s handling of public health.
