The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee on July 9 voted to advance the nomination of Susan Monarez, PhD, to be director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by a 12-11 party-line vote. The vote follows a June 25 nomination hearing [refer to Washington Highlights, June 27].
Before the vote, Committee Chair Bill Cassidy, MD (R-La.) shared remarks in support of the nomination, stating that Monarez “is committed to improving transparency at the CDC and properly communicating health guidance to the American people.” Cassidy noted Monarez will work to modernize the nation’s data health system to improve public health coordination and response while protecting Americans’ sensitive health information. Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), in opposition to the nomination, stated that “President Trump and Secretary Kennedy are working overtime to undermine the vital mission of the CDC …” and that “Dr. Monarez, who has served as Trump’s acting CDC director, has done nothing to stand in the way” [of Kennedy’s actions].
Following the vote, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) highlighted the spread of measles and how the committee has yet to have an oversight hearing on the “record-breaking number of measles outbreaks” or on the recent changes to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
The nomination will now advance to the Senate floor for a final vote on a date that is to be determined.