RFK Jr. defends firing spree at CDC, vows ‘new blood’ at agency
Health and Human Services Secretary Defends CDC Shake-Up
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Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stood by the recent changes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, promising a fresh start for the agency.
During a Senate Finance Committee hearing, Kennedy emphasized the need for new leadership at the CDC, citing the high COVID-19 death rate in the U.S. compared to other countries.
Kennedy announced that current CDC leaders responsible for pandemic response measures, such as mask mandates and school closures, would be replaced with individuals who bring innovative and competent ideas to the table.
“We need bold and creative minds to lead the CDC towards a better future,” Kennedy stated. “Change is necessary for progress, and we must embrace new perspectives to move forward.”
Health and Human Services Department (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the mass firings at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during the Senate Finance Committee hearing on Sept. 4, 2025. (Wi McNamee/Getty Images)
Kennedy Faces Senate Panel Amid CDC Overhaul
At the Senate hearing, Kennedy addressed questions regarding the Trump administration’s healthcare policies and vaccination guidelines. Senate Democrats raised concerns about Kennedy’s decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for children and his dismissal of health officials.
Under the Trump administration, significant changes have been made within the CDC and other federal health agencies, including the removal of all members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez.
Monarez, who was ousted after less than a month in her role, revealed in an op-ed that she was pressured to conform to new vaccine recommendations that aligned with anti-vaccine sentiments.
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. received backlash from Senate Democrats over his vaccine comments on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)
Restoring Trust in CDC Amid Controversy
Throughout the pandemic, the CDC faced scrutiny over its recommendations for vaccines, mask-wearing, and school protocols. Dr. Anthony Fauci’s evolving stance on mask usage also contributed to public confusion and skepticism.
Fauci, the former NIH Director, initially discouraged mask-wearing before reversing course and advocating for widespread mask use. The conflicting guidance from health officials like Fauci and the CDC fueled mistrust among the public.
