Former CDC Director Susan Monarez Testifies on Firing by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Testimony Following Dismissal

• 💡 Former CDC Director Susan Monarez testified to share her perspective after being fired by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. just weeks into her tenure.
• 📌 Monarez stated she chose to leave rather than compromise her integrity, despite being offered the chance to keep her office and title.

Allegations Against HHS Secretary Kennedy

• ⚠️ Monarez alleges that Kennedy directed her to dismiss career officials responsible for vaccine policy without cause.
• 🎯 She also claims Kennedy pressed her to preapprove a new childhood vaccine schedule without scientific evidence or data.
• 🔬 Monarez emphasized her willingness to consider changes but insisted on decisions being driven by science and data.

Political Accusations and Public Health Concerns

• 🗣️ Florida Senator Ashley Moody accused Monarez of using her exit for a political show, pointing to the presence of "anti-Trump lawyers."
• 🏥 A CDC doctor who resigned alongside Monarez warned that the current path jeopardizes preparedness for pandemics and chronic diseases, potentially leading to deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Committee Reaction and Upcoming Decisions

• 🩺 Senator Bill Cassidy, a medical doctor, stated he is withholding judgment until he can speak again with HHS Secretary Kennedy.
• 🗓️ A key CDC panel, recently reconstituted by Kennedy, is scheduled to meet to discuss recommendations for COVID-19, hepatitis B, and measles vaccines.