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Former CDC Director Susan Monarez testified before a Senate committee about her dismissal by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Monarez claims she was fired for refusing to rubber-stamp vaccine recommendations lacking scientific evidence and for refusing to dismiss scientists. She detailed tense meetings with Kennedy, who allegedly called CDC staff "horrible people" and demanded pre-approval of recommendations. Other witnesses, including former CDC Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, expressed concerns about declining vaccination rates, threats against CDC staff, and the politicization of the agency under Kennedy's leadership. The hearing highlighted fears about the future of public health in the US.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.