Story perspectives

Trump Expected to Nominate Permanent CDC Director Soon

3/26/2026

Center

Bhattacharya Addresses CDC Challenges

Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya said U.S. President Donald Trump may soon nominate a permanent CDC director.
He will continue in his role until a permanent director is named.
Bhattacharya acknowledged the CDC's struggles, including job losses, a shooting at its Atlanta campus, and staff concerns over morale and Schedule F.
He emphasized leadership stability and rebuilding trust in public health, including measles vaccinations, and depoliticizing the agency with improved NIH collaboration.

Left

Judge Rules Against CDC

A federal judge ruled that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's childhood vaccine schedule changes were likely illegal.
The judge said Robert F. Kennedy Jr. may have violated laws by reshaping the CDC's vaccine advisory panel.
The panel's decisions are on hold.
Following a shooting at CDC's Atlanta headquarters, trust in health agencies has declined.
The CDC seeks a permanent director amid rising measles cases and staff discontent.

History

Historical Context

The Vaccines for Children Program, established in 2000, boosted childhood vaccination rates by 50%. However, public trust in the CDC has declined, exacerbated by a 2025 shooting at its Atlanta headquarters and controversial vaccine policy changes under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. As measles cases rise, the CDC's collaboration with the NIH is crucial for restoring confidence in vaccination efforts.

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Bhattacharya Addresses CDC Challenges

Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya said U.S. President Donald Trump may soon nominate a permanent CDC director.
He will continue in his role until a permanent director is named.
Bhattacharya acknowledged the CDC's struggles, including job losses, a shooting at its Atlanta campus, and staff concerns over morale and Schedule F.
He emphasized leadership stability and rebuilding trust in public health, including measles vaccinations, and depoliticizing the agency with improved NIH collaboration.

1 / 3