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Trump Nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz to Lead CDC

4/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC.
Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general, must be confirmed by the Senate.
Her nomination follows the ousting of Dr. Susan Monarez for refusing to alter vaccine policies.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressed optimism about restoring the agency's credibility amid turmoil.

History

Historical Context

The CDC's credibility faced challenges during the 1976 swine flu outbreak, when a mass vaccination program led to over 500 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, fostering public distrust. This historical struggle for trust continues today, as Dr. Erica Schwartz's nomination follows the dismissal of Dr. Susan Monarez, reflecting ongoing tensions in vaccine policy and public health leadership.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC.
Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general, must be confirmed by the Senate.
Her nomination follows the ousting of Dr. Susan Monarez for refusing to alter vaccine policies.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressed optimism about restoring the agency's credibility amid turmoil.

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