In her inaugural large staff meeting, Dr. Erica Schwartz, the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), committed to advocating for the agency amid challenges of underfunded programs and staff burnout. Addressing these issues, Schwartz acknowledged the need for more staff and noted the exhaustion employees feel.
Dr. Schwartz emphasized her willingness to disagree with U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. if necessary, though she intends to keep such disagreements private. Her leadership began last week, marking the transition from temporary directors to a more stable figure.
During her first “all hands” meeting, Schwartz mentioned a report about CDC programs struggling due to staffing reductions initiated by President Donald Trump’s administration. She plans to consult with CDC staff to find solutions to the issues surrounding these “zombie” programs and the impacted workforce.
“The good news is, I’m here,” Schwartz stated. “I’m in my first week, ready to advocate for the CDC. Filling the previous leadership void will enable better support.”
Schwartz, with a background in the U.S. Coast Guard and Public Health Service, emphasized her approach to conflicts with other leaders as private. Her goal is to enhance public trust through transparency, scientific rigor, and honest communication, aligning with Kennedy’s ideals.
The CDC has faced a loss of over 3,000 employees due to layoffs and resignations, causing morale issues. The agency has cycled through temporary leaders and political appointees lacking medical or public health expertise. Kennedy’s influence, marked by actions opposing CDC research, included disbanding an expert advisory committee and creating a panel with vaccine skeptics.
Employees raised questions about Trump’s executive order on childhood vaccine schedules. Schwartz noted the formation of a task force on vaccine safety, which she joins, and it will report to Trump within 90 days.
Current and former CDC employees expressed cautious optimism toward Schwartz’s sincerity, emphasizing the need for action. The National Public Health Coalition urged for strong, science-focused leadership.