U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to nominate Dr. Susan Monarez as the permanent director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), replacing her acting role. With over 20 years in public service, Monarez has held key roles at the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Trump praised Monarez’s leadership and commitment to innovation, transparency, and public health, emphasizing her role in restoring trust in the CDC. “As an incredible mother and dedicated public servant, Dr. Monarez understands the importance of protecting our children, our communities, and our future,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
If confirmed by the Senate, Monarez will oversee the CDC’s response to current public health threats, including the deadly measles outbreak in West Texas and New Mexico, and the spread of avian flu. The Atlanta-based CDC operates with a $17.3 billion budget, largely supporting state and local health programs and vaccine access for underserved children.
Although Monarez is not a physician, she holds a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology and has served under both Republican and Democratic administrations since 2006. She would report to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime vaccine skeptic. Monarez's own stance on vaccines remains unclear.
Monarez’s nomination follows the withdrawal of Dave Weldon, a former congressman with anti-vaccine views, due to insufficient Senate support. Other candidates considered included former Representative Michael Burgess. The Senate HELP Committee, chaired by physician Bill Cassidy, is expected to review her nomination.
If approved, Monarez will play a crucial role in safeguarding national health, shaping vaccine policies, and rebuilding CDC credibility under Trump's renewed leadership vision.