The United States Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, in a 51-44 vote largely along party lines. Schwartz becomes the first Senate-confirmed CDC director since Susan Monarez was fired last year amid disputes over vaccine policy during President Donald Trump’s administration.

Schwartz’s confirmation comes as the CDC faces significant challenges, including a widespread Cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce affecting communities across the US. The agency has also been grappling with low morale and the loss of approximately 3,000 workers, many frustrated by vaccine policies promoted by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which conflict with established scientific consensus.

During her confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in July, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy questioned whether Schwartz would stand firm against politically motivated directives, particularly those from Kennedy. Schwartz responded, "The Secretary will absolutely allow me to be CDC director," though some critics felt she did not clearly distance herself from controversial stances.

Cassidy, a physician and committee chair, emphasized the need for a CDC director who would "actually stand up to crazy, stupid things being said that undermine faith in immunization." After the confirmation, Cassidy expressed support for Schwartz, stating he would work with her to regain public trust in the CDC.

Schwartz, 54, previously served as deputy surgeon general during Trump’s first term and held roles in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, including Coast Guard Chief Medical Officer. She replaces acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya.

Public health advocates, including the National Public Health Coalition—an organization of former and current CDC workers—called for leadership that protects public health workers and defends evidence-based guidance, refusing any directives that undermine safety.

Dr. Georges Benjamin of the American Public Health Association highlighted the agency’s need for "stability, experienced leadership and a steadfast commitment to science" amid the turmoil of recent years.

Schwartz’s confirmation marks a rare Senate win for the Trump administration after multiple failed attempts to fill senior health posts.

Sources