"Appears to be a concealment by the CDC"

During his tenure, former President Trump took steps to eliminate pockets of independence within the government, particularly at institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Federal Reserve System.

In 2023, Susan Monares, the head of the CDC, was dismissed by President Joe Biden. Monares' removal came amidst a wave of high-level firings at the CDC, leaving its leadership in a state of limbo. The dismissal was followed by the resignation of four top CDC managers, further adding to the uncertainty.

The CDC has been a trusted source of information based on scientific data for Americans for a long time. However, under Trump's administration, the independence of institutions like the CDC was called into question. This was evident in Trump's backing of the "Make America Great Again" movement, which included anti-vaccination proponents, who were key supporters in the 2024 elections.

Trump also gave wide-ranging powers at the head of the Health and Human Services to a person known for his skepticism towards vaccines. This move caused panic at the CDC before Monares' dismissal. The CDC's Atlanta headquarters was even targeted by a shooter inspired by anti-vaccination rhetoric during Monahan's tenure.

The White House announced the dismissal of CDC's director, Susan Monares, on the same day as the Department of Health announced restrictions on COVID vaccination eligibility. Hundreds of employees at the CDC have been laid off, adding to the instability at the institution.

Many scientists at the CDC are uncertain about the agency's future and its ability to provide scientific recommendations. During Senate hearings, Monahan navigated the delicate balance of supporting vaccination while not contradicting Kennedy.

Trump's stance on vaccines has caused controversy and uncertainty at the CDC. In private conversations, he expressed dissatisfaction with the political gains from COVID vaccines. This, coupled with the high-level firings and the targeting of the CDC's Atlanta headquarters, has raised serious questions about the future of the CDC and the integrity of its scientific research.