Context:

Susan Monarez, nominated to lead the CDC, emphasized her commitment to vaccines and scientific evidence during a Senate hearing but avoided discussing her stance on recent agency cuts and disagreements with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Monarez, a respected scientist with a background in microbiology and immunology, is the first nonphysician nominee for CDC director in decades and would be the first to require Senate confirmation. Her hearing was marked by questions about Kennedy's controversial actions, including firing vaccine committee members and downplaying measles risks, as well as cuts to programs investigating lead poisoning in children. Senators expressed concern over Monarez's willingness to act on her stated values, with some seeking assurances about the CDC's scientific integrity. Monarez pledged to prioritize innovation and evidence-based decision-making, though she did not directly address whether she disagreed with Kennedy's decisions, indicating he has a clear vision for public health priorities.

Dive Deeper:

• Susan Monarez, nominated by President Trump to head the CDC, faced a Senate hearing where she affirmed her support for vaccines and scientific rigor but avoided commenting on agency budget cuts and her views on Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s actions.

• Monarez's nomination comes after Trump's first choice for CDC director was withdrawn, and she has been serving as acting director since January. She stands out as the first nonphysician nominee for the role in decades and is known for her scientific credentials.

• During the hearing, Monarez was questioned about Kennedy's decision to reconstitute the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices with vaccine skeptics and his response to a measles outbreak, as well as about cuts to a lead poisoning prevention program.

• Senators, including Democrat Tim Kaine, expressed concerns about Monarez's willingness to implement her professed values, questioning her ability to maintain the CDC's core functions amidst administrative changes and budget reductions.

• Monarez committed to fostering innovation and ensuring evidence-based decision-making at the CDC, yet refrained from directly criticizing Kennedy's decisions, indicating alignment with his vision for prioritizing key public health activities.

• The CDC, an agency with a longstanding history of public health leadership, is undergoing a period of uncertainty, with Monarez poised to bring stability if confirmed, ending a phase marked by unclear leadership and administrative shifts.

• Despite her scientific background and experience, Monarez's communication with CDC staff was reportedly limited prior to her nomination, raising concerns about her involvement and visibility within the agency.