Experts warn NIH director now leading CDC will push ‘RFK Jr’s agenda’
RFK Jr ally Jay Bhattacharya was named acting director of the CDC and will be fourth leader in a year to head agency
TL;DR
- Jay Bhattacharya, NIH director, has been appointed acting director of the CDC.
- He is the fourth leader at the CDC in one year, a move seen as consolidating power.
- Bhattacharya is considered an ally of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and a vaccine critic.
- Critics worry he will advance RFK Jr.'s agenda and reshape vaccine policy.
- Staff suggest Bhattacharya has had minimal involvement in the daily operations of the NIH and is unlikely to actively manage the CDC.
- He previously made a name for himself opposing COVID-19 prevention measures and has criticized officials involved in both funding research and setting policy.
- Bhattacharya will continue his role as NIH director, where he has overseen research and staff cuts.
- The CDC has also reduced grants and laid off staff while reshaping vaccination policy.
- Concerns exist about his ability to lead two large agencies simultaneously, with some staff noting he delegates most responsibilities at the NIH.
- His appointment is temporary, as he can serve as acting director for a limited period.
- Experts are concerned about new restrictions on vaccination and Bhattacharya's focus on perceived failures of the past COVID response.