Today, the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee voted to favorably report President Trump's nomination of Susan Monarez as Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The vote was close, with a tally of 12-11. The nomination will now advance to the Senate floor for a final decision.
Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., who chairs the HELP Committee, expressed his support for Monarez's nomination before the vote. He emphasized the need for a CDC Director who bases decisions on scientific evidence and aims to reform the agency while restoring public trust in health institutions.
Cassidy highlighted Monarez's extensive experience as a public health official and her commitment to enhancing transparency at the CDC. "America needs a CDC Director who makes decisions rooted in science; a leader who will reform the agency and work to restore public trust in health institutions," Cassidy stated.
Monarez plans to modernize data health systems to improve public health coordination and response. This initiative is particularly important as the country faces re-emerging public health threats like measles. This year alone, measles has claimed three lives in the United States due to misinformation about vaccines.
Cassidy urged his colleagues to support Monarez's nomination. Following his remarks, Senator Bernie Sanders was recognized.
For further news and updates from HELP Republicans, individuals are encouraged to visit their website or follow them on Twitter at @GOPHELP.
