Several senior officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have stepped down following the controversial dismissal of Director Susan Monarez, intensifying internal turmoil at the nation’s top public health agency.
Monarez was formally removed on August 27 after a tense exchange with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., according to White House officials. Her legal team maintains that only the president has the authority to remove her, since she was confirmed by the Senate under a 2023 law. Unlike previous CDC directors, Monarez does not serve solely at the discretion of the health secretary.
A microbiologist with multiple degrees from the University of Wisconsin, Monarez was sworn in as the CDC’s 21st director on July 31, becoming the first confirmed leader without a medical degree. Within weeks of her appointment, she reportedly disagreed with Kennedy over vaccine policy and other public health priorities.
Resignations follow director’s dismissal
In the wake of her firing, five senior officials, each with long tenures at the agency, submitted their resignations. The wave of departures underscores broader concerns over political influence, scientific integrity, and public trust.
Debra Houry, former chief medical officer and deputy director for program and science, left the agency in late August. Trained in emergency medicine at Emory and Tulane universities, Houry cited growing misinformation around vaccines, anticipated budget cuts, and political pressure as key factors in her decision to leave.
Demetre Daskalakis, who led the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, also resigned on August 28. In a public letter, he criticized what he described as political interference, manipulation of data, and erosion of scientific standards. Daskalakis had served in several leadership roles at the CDC since 2020 and was known for his work in HIV prevention and vaccine outreach.
Concerns over political influence and scientific integrity
Daniel Jernigan, director of the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, stepped down after more than three decades at the CDC. He expressed concern about the agency’s direction, noting a growing disconnect between science and policy.
Jennifer Layden, head of the office overseeing public health data and surveillance, also departed. A former chief medical officer for Illinois, Layden warned that political influence was undermining evidence-based decision-making at the federal level.
As multiple CDC leaders resign, agency insiders and public health experts continue to voice concerns over its independence and future role in national health policy.
