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Story perspectives

New CDC Leader Faces Criticism and Controversy

2/20/2026

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Story summary
  • Jay Bhattacharya was appointed acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), becoming the fourth leader in a year.
  • Critics argue he is ineffective and serves Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s agenda.
  • Bhattacharya leads the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and faces criticism for delegating tasks.
  • Experts urge caution that he will push for new vaccination restrictions.
  • One observer called him the "worst NIH director in history."