Former CDC Directors Condemn Political Interference by HHS Secretary

Nine former directors of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have publicly criticized Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for his unprecedented political interference in public health. In a New York Times opinion essay published on September 1, 2025, they highlighted Kennedy's dismissal of CDC Director Susan Monarez and other actions they believe jeopardize the CDC's integrity and effectiveness.

The former directors, who collectively served over a century at the CDC under both Republican and Democratic administrations, expressed deep concern over Kennedy's recent decisions. They stated, "What the health and human services secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has done to the CDC and to our nation's public health system over the past several months... is unlike anything we had ever seen at the agency and unlike anything our country had ever experienced." (cbsnews.com)

Susan Monarez was sworn in as the 21st Director of the CDC on July 31, 2025. Less than a month into her tenure, on August 27, she was dismissed by the White House, which cited misalignment with the administration's direction. Monarez's attorneys contend that she was targeted for defending scientific principles and resisting political interference. (reuters.com)

Following Monarez's dismissal, at least four senior CDC officials resigned in protest, including Dr. Debra Houry, Dr. Daniel Jernigan, Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, and Dr. Jennifer Layden. These officials expressed concerns over political interference and the undermining of scientific integrity within the agency. (reuters.com)

In addition to the leadership changes, Kennedy has implemented significant policy shifts, including the dismissal of all 17 members of the CDC's vaccine advisory committee and replacing them with his own appointees, many of whom have shared vaccine-skeptic views. (warnock.senate.gov)

The former directors warn that Kennedy's actions could deter future scientific talent from joining or remaining in public service, potentially undermining the CDC's ability to protect public health. They urge Congress to exercise its oversight authority over the Department of Health and Human Services and call on state and local governments to fill funding gaps left by Kennedy's actions. (cbsnews.com)

The public condemnation by nine former CDC directors underscores the gravity of the current situation within the CDC and the broader public health community. As the agency faces leadership turmoil and policy shifts, the implications for public health and scientific integrity remain a pressing concern.