Ousted CDC Chief Testifies: RFK Jr Ordered Firings, Ignored Science

“The first was that I approve every recommendation from ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices), regardless of the scientific evidence,” she testified. “The second was to fire senior career officials responsible for vaccine policy without any cause.” Monarez said RFK Jr referred to CDC staff as “horrible people” and described the agency as “corrupt.” She emphasized that she could not follow through on Kennedy’s directives in good conscience. Kennedy, who took over as Health Secretary earlier this year, said earlier this month that Monarez was dismissed because when asked if she was trustworthy, she responded “No.” Also testifying was former CDC Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, who voiced deep concern over the falling rates of vaccine uptake across the U.S. “Public trust is eroding, and it’s dangerous,” she warned.

The Senate hearing comes amid increasing politicization of vaccine policy and growing tension between public health officials and political leadership. Monarez added that pressuring scientific bodies like ACIP undermines public health and may lead to disastrous consequences. She said she was shocked when Kennedy called career vaccine-policy officials “horrible people.” Monarez claimed ACIP recommendations are meant to be based on peer-reviewed data, not political direction. She expressed concern that removing experts without cause would erode institutional knowledge at the CDC. Debra Houry emphasized that vaccine hesitancy is rising, partly due to mixed messages from leadership. Kennedy’s office has not yet provided details clarifying how dismissals would align with civil service protections. The hearing ended with calls for more transparent policies and protections for career scientists at the CDC.