At the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, a climate of fear pervades as employees adopt strategies to avoid scrutiny amid significant upheaval following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as health secretary. Under his leadership, over 10,000 veteran staff have been dismissed, sparking concern and chaos among remaining employees. Allegations abound that new policies disrupt established scientific norms, leading to the closure of long-standing research programs, especially those focused on chronic disease prevention.
Staff feel watched and avoid digital communication to protect their discussions, believing they may be recorded. Concerns are growing regarding Kennedy’s controversial approaches, particularly around vaccines. He recently terminated members of a key advisory committee, citing conflicts of interest, and plans to launch a $500 million vaccine initiative that strays from established scientific methods.
The closure of essential programs, such as childhood lead-poisoning prevention, raises alarms about public health and safety. Many current and former CDC, FDA, and NIH staff express dismay at the lack of direction and increased bureaucracy amid the purported moves for efficiency. As experts scramble for resources and find their research stymied, they fear the long-term implications for American health and well-being under this administration, which many label as anti-science.
