ATLANTA — The new CDC director has been ousted from the position just weeks after being confirmed, WSB Radio confirmed.
Susan Monarez was nominated by President Donald Trump earlier this year after he withdrew his first choice over concerns related to Dave Weldon’s views on vaccines and autism. Monarez is a longtime federal government scientist.
Three top CDC officials are also leaving on their own.
They include Director of National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Disease Dr. Dan Jernigan, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, and Dr. Deb Houry, the Deputy Director for Program and Science.
WSB Radio’s Sabrina Cupit reports the ouster and subsequent resignations come as vaccine recommendation differences between the FDA and CDC are coming to light.
In a statement on social media, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services said, “Susan Monarez is no longer director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We thank her for her dedicated service to the American people. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has full confidence in his team at the CDC who will continue to be vigilant in protecting Americans against infectious diseases at home and abroad.”
Attorneys for Monarez responded in a statement by denying that she’s resigned or has been fired. Attorneys say Monarez was targeted for choosing to protect the public over serving a political agenda.
Monarez being ousted comes after a shooting at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta claimed the life of DeKalb County police officer David Rose earlier this month.
The CDC shooter, identified by the GBI as 30-year-old Kennesaw man Patrick Joseph White, was frustated with the COVID vaccine and blamed it for his health issues.
Investigators say White fired more than 180 rounds, shattering about 150 windows and doors across multiple buildings on the CDC campus.
Public health workers, families, and gun safety advocates have since called for stronger gun laws and increased safety and security.