Story perspectives

CDC Workforce Plummets 18% Under Health Secretary Kennedy

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services since February 2025, has overseen turmoil at the CDC.
More than 2,400 CDC employees have been terminated or resigned, about 18% of the workforce.
Critics say Kennedy aims to dismantle vaccination programs and has sidelined scientific expertise.
The shifts raise concerns about the CDC's effectiveness and U.S. global health coordination, especially after withdrawal from the World Health Organization.

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Story summary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services since February 2025, has overseen turmoil at the CDC.
More than 2,400 CDC employees have been terminated or resigned, about 18% of the workforce.
Critics say Kennedy aims to dismantle vaccination programs and has sidelined scientific expertise.
The shifts raise concerns about the CDC's effectiveness and U.S. global health coordination, especially after withdrawal from the World Health Organization.