MMA Dismayed by Removal of CDC Director and Resignation of Senior Leaders

August 28, 2025

The apparent removal of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director, Susan Monarez, PhD, after just weeks on the job, further imperils the work of the CDC and the health of Americans. Her removal was followed by the resignations of other senior leaders at the CDC, who have accused HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. of undermining scientific recommendations for vaccines.  

“These troublesome actions come at a time when public health is under attack, and when credible, science-based leadership from the CDC is needed more than ever,” said Kimberly Tjaden, MD, MPH, Board Chair. “In the past several months, we have seen budget cuts and staffing changes within the CDC – actions that have had a ripple effect nationwide and caused stress to Minnesota’s public health infrastructure.”   

Tjaden noted, “The Minnesota Medical Association joins the American Medical Association (AMA) in urging federal leaders to restore confidence in our public health institutions to ensure that scientific expertise and data drive guidance and policy.”