Story perspectives

Trump Nominates Kennedy Amid CDC Turmoil and Shutdown

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Health and Human Services Secretary.
Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance drew concerns among Republicans, notably Sen. Bill Cassidy, who criticized his influence on health policies.
The CDC faced turmoil, including a fatal shooting at its Atlanta headquarters and the ouster of Director Susan Monarez over political interference.
Congress struggled over extending COVID-era health subsidies, resulting in a record 43-day government shutdown.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Health and Human Services Secretary.
Kennedy's anti-vaccine stance drew concerns among Republicans, notably Sen. Bill Cassidy, who criticized his influence on health policies.
The CDC faced turmoil, including a fatal shooting at its Atlanta headquarters and the ouster of Director Susan Monarez over political interference.
Congress struggled over extending COVID-era health subsidies, resulting in a record 43-day government shutdown.