The Senate has confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as the 22nd director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, filling the top leadership role at the Atlanta-based agency for the first time in nearly a year. The confirmation came on Wednesday via a 51-44 party-line vote.
Schwartz, 54, steps into the position as the CDC confronts significant public health challenges, including the largest foodborne illness outbreak in recent years, a widespread measles resurgence, and an international Ebola outbreak. She becomes the first permanent CDC director since Susan Monarez, who was dismissed last year.
The CDC has experienced a period of instability since the current administration entered office, with over 3,000 employees, more than a quarter of its workforce, leaving the agency through resignations and layoffs.
President Trump nominated Schwartz in April, describing her as a highly respected doctor with the necessary expertise to restore the agency's scientific standing. Schwartz's previous experience includes serving as Chief Medical Officer for the U.S. Coast Guard, a role as deputy surgeon general, and holding degrees in both medicine and law.
During her confirmation hearing, some senators raised concerns about Schwartz's ability to independently uphold scientific integrity, particularly in relation to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s views on public health policy. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) questioned whether Schwartz would be able to counter orders from Kennedy if they conflicted with scientific evidence. Cassidy later expressed confidence in Schwartz's judgment after a private discussion.
Conversely, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) voiced opposition, questioning the administration's commitment to science and its willingness to challenge "anti-science" viewpoints. Schwartz pledged during her hearing to prioritize science but did not directly dissent from all actions taken by Kennedy, who has previously sought to alter national vaccination schedules.