Susan Monares, the former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is set to testify before a Senate committee on Wednesday, September 19, regarding his recent high-profile departure from the agency.
On Tuesday, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), who chairs the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, announced that the committee will convene to discuss President Trump’s initiative aimed at enhancing transparency within the CDC—an effort deemed crucial for safeguarding the health of American children.
“Children’s health has to be prioritized,” Cassidy stated. “I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Kennedy for making radical transparency a key focus.” He emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the CDC’s actions, noting that Americans need assurance about their children’s health being prioritized. “Fundamental transparency is essential.”
Monares was removed from his position as CDC director in late August after just a few weeks in the role. Reports indicate that Kennedy urged Monares to resign amid tensions surrounding vaccine policy.
Debra Houry, who previously served as chief medical officer of the CDC and stepped down last month, will also provide testimony at the hearing. Houry mentioned in August that her decision to resign was largely influenced by the Trump administration’s move to terminate Monares, which she described as the final straw.
She noted that three others from the CDC resigned around the same time, following the ousting of Monares prompted by Health and Welfare Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The committee intends to invite HHS officials to future hearings as well, according to the Help website.
This hearing follows two weeks after Kennedy defended his leadership during a contentious Senate hearing, facing criticism from lawmakers regarding recent disruptions at the CDC and shifts in vaccine policy.
During that hearing, Cassidy had a tense exchange with Kennedy concerning mRNA vaccines and conflicts of interest within the vaccine advisory panel Kennedy appointed.
Although Cassidy hesitated to endorse Kennedy’s confirmation, he ultimately voted in favor of advancing the nomination after receiving commitments regarding vaccine policy. This interaction represented one of the most intense confrontations and controversial discussions between the two since Kennedy took office.
