Former CDC Director: RFK Jr. Did Not Call After Agency Shooting

CDC Shooting Incident

• 🎯 On August 8th, a gunman opened fire at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
• 🔒 The incident forced thousands of employees on campus to lock down.

Lack of Communication from HHS Secretary

• 📞 Former CDC Director Susan Monarez testified that she did not receive a call from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following the shooting.
• 🗓️ Monarez confirmed she did not speak to the Secretary until August 11th, three days after the incident.
• ⚠️ When questioned by Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Monarez stated that the Secretary failed to provide a courtesy call after learning about the shooting.

Allegations of Political Pressure and Firing

• 🗣️ Monarez testified about political pressure she claims to have faced from Kennedy.
• 🔬 She alleges she was fired after refusing to preapprove vaccine recommendations without reviewing scientific evidence.
• ❌ Kennedy has denied these claims, stating Monarez was lying.

Impact on Health Officials

• 📉 Monarez's firing led to the resignations of several other top health officials.
• 🎤 Former chief medical officer Dr. Debra Houry, who also testified, was among those who resigned.

Upcoming Advisory Committee Meeting

• 📅 The hearing precedes a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which issues vaccine recommendations.
• 👥 Kennedy has faced criticism for removing and replacing board members with individuals who align with his views.
• 💉 The panel is expected to vote on authorizations for COVID-19 vaccines and others.