Story perspectives

Former NIH Official Sues Trump Administration Over Vaccine Dispute

12/17/2025

Center

Marrazzo Sues Administration

Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, a former NIH official, filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's administration, alleging illegal termination by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after concerns about vaccine research.
She says she was sidelined for opposing NIH officials who questioned childhood flu vaccines and canceled trials.
Marrazzo accuses Dr. Matthew Memoli of downplaying vaccines and seeks reinstatement and whistleblower protections, while an HHS spokesperson defends Memoli's vaccine priorities today.

Left

Bhattacharya's NIH Leadership

Under the Trump administration, the NIH underwent leadership changes involving Jay Bhattacharya and his deputy Matthew Memoli.
Observers view Jay Bhattacharya, a health economist with no infectious disease training, as largely ineffective and focused on media.
Matthew Memoli, the NIH deputy, has cut infectious disease research and dismissed experienced leaders, prompting concerns.
The NIH redirected funding from COVID-19 vaccine development to other projects, signaling a shift away from innovative research.

1 of 2

Marrazzo Sues Administration

Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, a former NIH official, filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's administration, alleging illegal termination by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after concerns about vaccine research.
She says she was sidelined for opposing NIH officials who questioned childhood flu vaccines and canceled trials.
Marrazzo accuses Dr. Matthew Memoli of downplaying vaccines and seeks reinstatement and whistleblower protections, while an HHS spokesperson defends Memoli's vaccine priorities today.

1 / 2