Science Quickly Inside the Turmoil at the CDC
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Sep 5, 2025 Lauren J. Young, associate editor for health and medicine at Scientific American, dives deep into the chaos at the CDC following the resignation of director Susan Monarez. She discusses rising tensions within the agency, exemplified by calls for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to resign. The conversation highlights the profound implications of these leadership shifts on public health initiatives, outbreak management, and the urgent need for stable guidance as the nation navigates increasing health challenges.
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Leadership Turmoil Threatens CDC Functions
- The CDC is facing chaotic leadership changes after Susan Menares's abrupt removal and subsequent legal dispute about her firing.
- Experts warn this instability threatens core CDC functions like outbreak surveillance and vaccine policy.
Public Fight Over Menares's Dismissal
- HHS posted Menares's removal on X without context, then her lawyers said she hadn't been notified and wouldn't resign.
- The White House later said she was terminated, creating a public legal and political muddle.
Senior Staff Exodus Creates Leadership Gaps
- Multiple senior CDC leaders resigned or walked out after the leadership upheaval, leaving key branches leaderless.
- Resignations included top experts in immunization, influenza, and the CDC chief medical officer.