President Donald Trump has officially nominated Dr. Susan Monarez to serve as the permanent CDC Director, making her the first non-physician to lead the agency in more than five decades. Monarez, an experienced infectious-disease researcher, has been serving as the acting director since January 2025.
A Change in CDC Leadership
The nomination comes after Trump’s first choice, Dr. Dave Weldon, withdrew after receiving criticism from politicians and medical professionals for his doubts over infant vaccinations. Susan Monarez’s nomination seems to indicate that the government favors a public health strategy supported by science.
A Solid Foundation in Infectious Diseases
Prior to assuming her temporary role at the CDC, Dr. Monarez served as the deputy director of a government biomedical research agency under the Biden administration. Because of her reputation as a biosecurity expert and, in particular, her support for COVID-19 immunizations, she stands in stark contrast to Weldon.
Upcoming Difficulties: Monarez is under investigation despite her credentials. Her lack of communication during her time as acting director has annoyed many CDC staff. Monarez has also criticized the administration for carrying out its controversial directives, which included taking LGBTQ+ health materials down from the agency’s website.
Looking forward to
Should Susan Monarez be confirmed, she is expected to work closely with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to address public health challenges like the recent measles outbreak and rising vaccination hesitancy.
Source: The New York Times
