Donald Trump has selected Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), concluding a months-long search for a permanent director. Trump announced his choice on Truth Social, praising Schwartz as “incredibly talented” and a “STAR!”
Schwartz previously served as deputy surgeon general during Trump’s first administration and is currently a rear admiral in the US Coast Guard. She is Trump’s third nominee to head the CDC and was considered for acting U.S. surgeon general but was passed over by the Biden administration in 2021.
The CDC has experienced turmoil and leadership changes, particularly under HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Former CDC Director Susan Monarez was recently fired following disagreements over planned vaccine policy changes. The president also named three additional individuals to leadership positions within the agency.
Dr. Schwartz has emerged as the White House’s top pick amid ongoing controversy surrounding vaccine guidance at the health agency.