The article describes a culture of fear and anxiety among employees at the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia, following significant leadership changes under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Since his appointment in February, more than 10,000 experienced staff members have been fired, resulting in a chaotic environment where employees feel constantly monitored. Staff avoid Zoom meetings and discuss sensitive topics in soundproof offices to prevent scrutiny from officials from the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge).
Kennedy’s reforms aim to “make America healthy again” but have led to drastic changes, including the cancellation of crucial research programs and increased bureaucracy in grant approvals. Many employees believe the alterations threaten public health, particularly in areas like vaccine policy, where Kennedy controversially dismissed an advisory committee on immunization. Critics express concerns that decisions are being politicized, potentially jeopardizing vaccine availability and overall public health.
Despite Kennedy’s claims of promoting efficiency, insiders report that the added bureaucracy and funding shortages are undermining operations at agencies like the FDA, potentially leading to compromised food safety. The overall sentiment among CDC workers is one of despair, with many perceiving the administration as “anti-science” and expressing reluctance to continue working under current conditions.
