The previous head of the CDC expressed concerns on Monday regarding the recent dismissal of Director Susan Monares by HHS head Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This action has raised eyebrows, especially among health officials.
A piece in the New York Times featured nine former directors and acting directors of the CDC, who warned about the implications of Kennedy’s decisions on public health. They highlighted the consequences of Monares’ firing, including the termination of thousands of health workers, the cancellation of research investments, and the alteration of expert advisory boards—all seen as detrimental changes to the CDC.
These former leaders were particularly alarmed by the manner in which Monares was let go, noting that it triggered resignations from at least four other CDC officials. They commended Monares for her commitment to science and public health during this turbulent time.
“When Secretary Kennedy appointed Dr. Monares, he described her as a qualified public health expert. But when she wouldn’t endorse his controversial vaccine recommendations or comply with his requests to dismiss senior staff, he decided to oust her,” they outlined in the op-ed.
The collective opinion reflected, “These kinds of demands are not standard for a health secretary, and none of us would have acquiesced to them. We stand in support of Dr. Monares for protecting both our institution and the community.”
After reaching out to HHS for comment on the op-ed, the former CDC director also acknowledged the ongoing professionalism of CDC staff, despite the challenging environment, saying their dedication sets a standard for others.
However, there’s no denying the CDC is facing substantial challenges now. With Monares and other senior officials gone, the agency’s longstanding mission, which has played a critical role for decades, has become more complicated.
The group discussed steps to safeguard public health across various sectors, advocating for increased funding from both federal and local governments, as well as private initiatives, emphasizing a collaborative ask for community support.
“Those who dedicated their lives to the CDC have done so not for fame but out of a genuine commitment to service. They deserve leadership that respects science and public health,” they added.
The fallout from Monares’ firing and the resignations has created a stir within the public health community, prompting varied reactions in Washington.
Kennedy, along with the White House, defended the decision to dismiss Monares, claiming that it’s the president’s responsibility to remove individuals who do not align with his objectives. Spokesperson Caroline Levitt remarked that the administration aims to rebuild trust and accountability within the CDC.
The op-ed was endorsed by notable former leaders, including William Foege (director from 1977 to 1983), William Roper (1990 to 1993), David Thatcher (1993 to 1998), Jeffrey Coplan (1998 to 2002), Richard Besser (acting director in 2009), Tom Frieden (2009 to 2017), Anne Schchat (acting director in 2017 and 2018), Rochelle Walensky (2021 to 2023), and Mandy Cohen (2023 to 2025).
