September 17, 2025

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removes CDC Director Susan Monarez amid dispute over vaccine policy

Claims HHS demanded approval without epidemiological review

🏛️Government🏥Public Health

The Senate confirmed Susan Monarez to lead the CDC on Jul. 29, 2025, in a 51–47 vote, and she was sworn in on Jul. 31, 2025.

Monarez told the Senate on Sept. 17, 2025, that in late Aug. Kennedy demanded blanket preapproval of vaccine recommendations and asked her to remove career scientists who dissented.

HHS posted on Aug. 27, 2025, that Monarez was 'no longer director.' Monarez's lawyers disputed the legality of the removal.

HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill was named acting CDC director in late Aug. 2025.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Debra Houry resigned with several other senior officials, citing politicization of CDC science.

A gunman attacked the CDC campus in Aug. 2025. Reporting confirms a law enforcement officer was killed; staff reported trauma and threats tied to vaccine distrust.

🏛️Government🏥Public Health

Test Your Knowledge

RFK fired the entire _____-member vaccine advisory panel and replaced them with _____ anti-vaccine advocates.

What did RFK Jr. call the CDC in his meeting with Monarez?

Match each Senator's response to their party affiliation:

True or False: Republican Senator Bill Cassidy supported RFK Jr.'s firing of Monarez.

Map the exodus: Connect CDC officials to their response to Monarez's firing.

5 more questions available

Upgrade to Premium to access all practice questions and unlock advanced quiz features.

Upgrade to Premium

These questions are part of the Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removes CDC Director Susan Monarez amid dispute over vaccine policy topic. Master this topic by completing the quiz or exploring each question in detail.

Ready to test your knowledge?

Take the full quiz to master this topic and track your progress.

Start Quiz

People, bills, and sources

Susan Monarez

Former CDC Director