United States — National Institutes of Health & Susan Monarez

United States — National Institutes of Health: The NIH provided interim leadership for the CDC through its director, Jay Bhattacharya. Its role was temporary, and it remains a key health research agency.

Susan Monarez: Her firing as CDC director in 2025 set the stage for the leadership vacuum. Her experience underscores the challenges Schwartz faces in maintaining independence from political pressure.

Susan Monarez: Susan Monarez was fired as director of the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) after clashing with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over vaccine recommendations, triggering further resignations.

Susan Monarez: Susan Monarez was confirmed by the Senate to lead the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention but was ousted in less than a month over disagreements with the administration's agenda, leading to resignations of key scientific leaders.