Introduction to the New CDC Director
The Trump administration has named a new nominee to lead the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), following the withdrawal of its previous candidate, Dr. David Weldon. Susan Coller Monarez, who currently serves as acting director at the CDC, could be elevated to lead the agency if confirmed by the Senate.
Why It Matters
Monarez has spent nearly two decades in various roles across the government, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Her experience and expertise make her a strong candidate for the position.
Monarez’s Background
Among her roles at the Department of Health and Human Services, Monarez served at the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, Health Resources and Services Administration, and most recently as deputy director at Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). At ARPA-H, Monarez developed and launched over $2 billion in programs and projects targeting public health and care delivery challenges. She also led the agency’s data innovation strategy and data systems architecture design, including pioneering generative AI end-to-end enabled capabilities.
Key Challenges and Initiatives
Monarez has led the development of AI and machine learning projects focused on several key challenges for public and population health, including:
- Affordability and accessibility
- Expanding access to behavioral and mental health interventions
- Tackling the opioid epidemic
- Addressing health disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality
- Improving the country’s organ donation and transplantation programs
The Larger Trend
The White House withdrew the nomination of Weldon, its initial pick to lead the CDC, earlier this month due to concerns about his vaccine-skeptical views. The GOP-controlled Senate health committee canceled a planned hearing on Weldon’s nomination after several Republicans aired their concerns.
On the Record
President Trump announced the new nomination on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating that "Americans have lost confidence in the C.D.C. due to political bias and disastrous mismanagement." He praised Monarez as "an incredible mother and dedicated public servant" who understands the importance of protecting children, communities, and the future.
Reaction to the Nomination
Monarez holds a Ph.D. and would be the first non-physician to lead the agency in over 50 years. Other population and public health leaders have applauded the nomination, citing her strong reputation as a solid researcher and expert in infectious diseases. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, stated that Monarez "clearly understands public health and the role governmental public health plays." Jennifer Nuzzo, professor of epidemiology and director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University School of Public Health, expressed her enthusiasm for Monarez’s leadership, citing her "long, distinguished history as a data-driven, effective civil servant."
Conclusion
The nomination of Susan Coller Monarez as the new director of the CDC marks a significant development in the agency’s leadership. With her extensive experience and expertise in public health, Monarez is well-positioned to address the key challenges facing the agency and the country. As the first non-physician to lead the CDC in over 50 years, Monarez brings a unique perspective and skillset to the role.
FAQs
- Q: Who is the new nominee to lead the CDC?
A: Susan Coller Monarez is the new nominee to lead the CDC. - Q: What is Monarez’s background and experience?
A: Monarez has spent nearly two decades in various roles across the government, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. - Q: What are some of the key challenges that Monarez has focused on in her work?
A: Monarez has led the development of AI and machine learning projects focused on several key challenges for public and population health, including affordability and accessibility, expanding access to behavioral and mental health interventions, tackling the opioid epidemic, addressing health disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality, and improving the country’s organ donation and transplantation programs. - Q: How have other public health leaders reacted to Monarez’s nomination?
A: Other population and public health leaders have applauded the nomination, citing her strong reputation as a solid researcher and expert in infectious diseases.
