The Director of the CDC Stays in Position Despite White House Announcement
Despite an announcement by the White House stating that the director of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had been fired, one of her lawyers has confirmed that she is still in her position.
Refusal to Rubber-Stamp Unscientific Directives
Susan Monarez, who has only been in the role for a month, reportedly refused to “rubber-stamp unscientific, reckless directives” and accused Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr of “weaponizing public health.”
Reasons for Removal
The White House cited that the reason for her removal was because she was “not aligned with the president’s agenda.”
However, her lawyer stated that only President Donald Trump has the authority to remove her from her position.
Resignations and Vaccine Policy Frustrations
At least three senior CDC leaders resigned from the agency, with some citing frustration over vaccine policy and the leadership of Kennedy, also known as RFK.
Among them was Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, who expressed concerns about the “rise of misinformation” about vaccines and argued against planned budget cuts for the agency.
Dr. Monarez’s Nomination and Stance
A long-time federal government scientist, Dr. Monarez was nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the CDC and was confirmed in a Senate vote along party lines in July.
Her nomination followed the withdrawal of Trump’s first pick, former Republican Congressman Dave Weldon, who faced criticism for his views on vaccines and autism.
Choosing Public Protection Over Politics
Dr. Monarez’s lawyers released a statement on Wednesday emphasizing her commitment to “protecting the public over serving a political agenda.”
The White House’s statement on her termination reiterated that she was not aligned with the president’s agenda.
Despite the controversy surrounding her position, Dr. Monarez remains in her role as the director of the CDC.
—BBC
