The Senate confirmed Susan Monarez, PhD, as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on July 29 by a 51-47 party-line vote. Her confirmation follows advancement by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee on July 9 [refer to Washington Highlights, July 11].
Monarez previously served as acting CDC director from January through March. Her confirmation marks the first time the CDC director has been subject to Senate approval after Congress passed legislation in 2023 requiring confirmation for the position.