Read, Watch or Listen

Susan Monarez will be sworn in as the new CDC director, facing significant challenges. The agency has lost staff and funding under the Trump administration's proposed budget, and faces potential program eliminations. HHS Secretary Kennedy's actions to undermine vaccination efforts and restrict communications further complicate matters. While Monarez has experience in federal agencies and expressed support for vaccines and fluoride, concerns remain about her independence under Kennedy's leadership. Her priorities include improving trust in the CDC, strengthening public health infrastructure, and creating rapid, evidence-based responses to emergencies.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.