New CDC Director Pledges to "Never Betray the Science" After Predecessor Was Fired Over Vaccine Policy

The Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC director on August 5, 2026, in a 51-44 vote. She is Trump's third pick after David Weldon was withdrawn and Susan Monarez was fired by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over vaccine policy. At her hearing, Schwartz pledged she "will never betray the science." Her autonomy under Kennedy remains the open question.