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President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he is nominating Dr. Susan Monarez as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The president shared the announcement in a post on his Truth Social account that highlighted Monarez’s background.
“I am proud to announce that Dr. Susan Monarez is my Nominee to serve as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Monarez brings decades of experience championing Innovation, Transparency, and strong Public Health Systems. She has a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, and PostDoctoral training in Microbiology and Immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine,” Trump wrote.
“As an incredible mother and dedicated public servant, Dr. Monarez understands the importance of protecting our children, our communities, and our future. Americans have lost confidence in the CDC due to political bias and disastrous mismanagement,” he continued.
“Dr. Monarez will work closely with our GREAT Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert Kennedy Jr. Together, they will prioritize Accountability, High Standards, and Disease Prevention to finally address the Chronic Disease Epidemic and, MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN!” Trump concluded.
Monarez, 50, has been the CDC’s acting director since January.
Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, supported Monarez, emphasizing her experience and commitment to science-based decision-making.
“She has several solid attributes: strong respect for science-based decision making, has successfully worked in government, has managed programs in complex environments and is an expert in infectious disease,” Benjamin stated.
Trump initially nominated David Weldon to lead the CDC, but his nomination was withdrawn earlier this month due to insufficient support for confirmation. According to Politico, Monarez is considered a more moderate choice than Weldon.
The nomination will now proceed to the Senate confirmation process, where lawmakers will evaluate her qualifications and leadership style. If confirmed, she will be tasked with restoring public trust in the CDC and enhancing internal communication.
