The CDC director, Susan Monarez, was ousted after less than a month, along with several top officials. Her lawyers claim she was targeted for prioritizing science over political agendas. The resignations followed budget cuts, reorganization, and changes to vaccine policies under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who replaced key advisory board members with vaccine skeptics. Experts warn of the devastating impact on public health, citing the loss of experienced scientists and the politicization of science within the agency. Monarez's tenure was also marked by a shooting incident near the CDC headquarters.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.