Former CDC Leaders Testify on Political Interference and Vaccine Recommendations

Unprecedented Changes at the CDC

• ❓ Dr. Minard stated there is no precedent for a new administration dismissing the entire vaccine advisory board and appointing a new one.
• ❓ She also confirmed it was not her experience for the CDC director to clear personnel and policy decisions with political staff.
• ❓ Furthermore, she had never experienced being asked to pre-approve vaccine recommendations without seeing the supporting medical and scientific evidence.

Political Influence on Vaccine Schedules

• 🗣️ During a meeting, the secretary referenced speaking with President Trump about his feelings on the childhood vaccine schedule, giving the impression of presidential support for upcoming changes.
• ⚠️ The former CDC director has no way to substantiate the veracity of these claims.

Safety Concerns and Misinformation

• 🎯 The testimony highlighted the trauma from the 180 rounds fired into the CDC building, with 500 rounds total fired.
• 😨 Both former leaders expressed fear for the safety of CDC personnel and the medical profession due to conspiracy theories about vaccines and those who recommend them.
• 🚫 Misleading information is feared to undermine the health and safety of children and exacerbate tensions, potentially leading to harm.
• 🔒 Some personnel are now afraid to speak about vaccines or put their names on public scientific papers due to fear of violence and personal targeting.
• 🛡️ To protect staff and scientists, subject matter experts no longer present at ACIP meetings; presentations are now at a leadership level to disconnect and shield their names from targeting.