At the CDC headquarters in Atlanta, employees navigate a climate of fear and mistrust following the mass firing of over 10,000 staff under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Many feel monitored, with important discussions moved to soundproof offices. There’s a notable reduction in resources, leading workers to scavenge office supplies from the desks of terminated colleagues.
Kennedy’s administration has led to significant shifts in health policy, with longstanding scientific practices disrupted and many research initiatives canceled due to their perceived “wokeness.” Critics describe the changes as detrimental, with the closure of vital programs aimed at chronic disease prevention and an apparent politicization of vaccine policies. The abrupt firing of all members of the advisory committee on immunization practices has sparked particular concern, especially regarding vaccine availability and public health safety.
Kennedy’s push for reform is framed by his allies as necessary, but insiders report dysfunction and chaos amidst layers of new bureaucracy, contradicting claims of improved efficiency. Many staff express disillusionment, stating that the current environment is fundamentally against their values as scientists. As uncertainty looms, there are fears that the ongoing changes will ultimately harm public health both in the U.S. and globally.
