White House Stands by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Amid CDC Leadership Crisis

Mon Oct 20 2025 18:22:44 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The White House gives unwavering support to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following significant turbulence at the CDC, including the termination of its chief and resignations of key officials.

In the wake of discontent within the CDC, the White House is backing Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., despite mounting pressure for his removal. Recent leadership changes, including the firing of CDC Chief Dr. Susan Monarez, have led to resignations over Kennedy's controversial policies, with some lawmakers calling for action against him. Kennedy's history as a vaccine skeptic is fueling these tensions as he attempts to reshape the agency's reputation amidst challenges.

The White House is defending Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as he faces significant criticism following a tumultuous week at the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC). White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller described Kennedy as a crown jewel of this administration, amid calls for his resignation.

Earlier this week, CDC Chief Dr. Susan Monarez was dismissed for being misaligned with the presidential agenda, leading to the appointment of Kennedy's deputy, Jim O'Neill, as her successor. Since Kennedy's appointment, at least three senior leaders at the CDC have resigned, revealing growing frustration regarding his leadership and vaccine policies.

Miller highlighted Kennedy's role as one of the world's foremost voices, advocates, and experts on public health, emphasizing his endeavors to restore the CDC's credibility. Despite not possessing a medical degree, Kennedy was selected by former President Trump to lead the health department overseeing numerous US health agencies, including the CDC.

This unrest within the CDC was further exacerbated by the agency's recent mass firing of 600 employees, per union representatives. Criticism against Kennedy stems from his past as a vaccine skeptic and the implementation of significant funding cuts and regulatory changes that have angered public health experts.

Former chief CDC Medical Officer Dr. Debra Houry expressed concern over Kennedy's policies, stating they might disrupt children's vaccine schedules and heighten the risk of resurgent diseases like polio and measles. Several Democratic senators have echoed these sentiments, with Georgia's Jon Ossoff labeling Kennedy a quack and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging Trump's swift action against him.

Moreover, Republican Senator Susan Collins demanded a congressional hearing on the matter, citing a lack of justification for Monarez’s removal, while Senate Health Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy indicated increased oversight over the agency's current issues.

In response to the criticisms, Kennedy has reached out to CDC employees in an open letter, pledging to work collaboratively to restore trust and transparency within the agency, aiming to restore its role as a guardian of America's health.

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