Unbeaten after Fights and Dismissals: The Unstoppable Susan Monarez

Susan Monarez, a renowned non-political figure with a reputation for skill, integrity, and a strong commitment to science, was appointed as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on July 31, 2025. Her confirmation marked a historic moment, making her the first non-physician to hold this position in the agency's 79-year history.

However, Monarez's tenure has been marred by controversy since her appointment. The U.S. health agency, CDC, was expected to be a target, with several measures taken by the health ministry to alter its structures and cut funding. This move has sparked concerns and uncertainty about the future of public health institutions.

Monarez's nomination was already met with criticism from anti-vaxxers, who viewed it as a betrayal. This criticism escalated when Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his strong opposition to vaccinations, was appointed as the Health Minister. Kennedy's appointment has caused further unrest, with many fearing a potential rollback in vaccination policies as a part of preventive health policy in the U.S.

Four high-ranking officials at the CDC resigned after Monarez refused to dismiss key leadership, further fueling speculation about the future of the agency. Monarez's lawyers have since denied that she would step down or resign, but there has been uncertainty about whether she may have to do so.

Monarez's lawyers have also criticized the systematic dismantling of public health institutions, the silencing of experts, and the dangerous politicization of science. They warn that evidence-based structures are being undermined from within.

Despite the challenges, Monarez has maintained her support for vaccinations and sound scientific evidence. She has a strong background in biomedical research, having researched treatments for African sleeping sickness and toxoplasmosis at Stanford. She has also worked for the biomedical innovation agency established by former President Joe Biden and the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the White House.

As the situation continues to unfold, Jim O'Neill could potentially succeed Susan Monarez as CDC director after her departure. The future of the CDC and public health in the U.S. remains uncertain, with many hoping that Monarez's commitment to evidence-based practices will prevail.