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Trump Nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director

President Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination comes amidst ongoing debates about public health policy and the agency's leadership.

Latest Developments

AP US News96/100Apr 17, 2026

Photos show the ‘Build the Red Wall’ rally in Arizona, headlined by Trump - AP News

Photos from the ‘Build the Red Wall’ rally in Arizona show President Trump headlining the event. This rally highlights the administration's ongoing focus on border security and immigration enforcement, particularly in states bordering Mexico. The term "Red Wall" likely refers to a strategy to secure the southern border, echoing the "Build the Wall" slogan from his previous campaign. Such events serve to galvanize his political base and reinforce key policy priorities of the Trump administration. The visual documentation by AP News provides a public record of the event and its central figure.

Reuters US95/100Apr 17, 2026

Trump set to ease restrictions on psychedelic drug used to treat PTSD - Reuters

President Trump is set to ease restrictions on a psychedelic drug used to treat PTSD, according to Reuters. This move would significantly alter federal policy regarding substances that have historically faced strict regulations. The policy change aims to make the drug more accessible for medical research and therapeutic use, particularly for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Easing restrictions could accelerate clinical trials and potentially lead to new treatment options for a condition that affects millions. This action reflects a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics within the medical community.

Ars Technica85/100Apr 17, 2026

Trump picks qualified, normal health leader to head CDC; experts still cautious

President Trump on Thursday announced Dr. Erica Schwartz as his third nominee for director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Schwartz is a former deputy surgeon general in Trump's first administration and a retired rear-admiral of the US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. This uncontroversial pick aims to address concerns within the administration regarding Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s anti-vaccine agenda, which is seen as a liability before the midterms. Schwartz, a board-certified physician in preventive medicine, publicly supports vaccination and was involved in the federal rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. She holds a medical degree from Brown University and a master's degree in public health.

TIME90/100Apr 17, 2026

Trump Nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to head the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), announced in an April 16 Truth Social post. Dr. Schwartz, a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service and Coast Guard, previously served as chief medical officer for the U.S. Coast Guard and as deputy to then-Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams during the first Trump Administration. Her nomination follows nearly eight months without an official director and a tumultuous period for CDC leadership during Trump's second term. The White House withdrew a previous nominee, Dr. David Weldon, and Susan Monarez served as director for only about four weeks before being ousted over policy disagreements. Dr. Schwartz now faces Senate confirmation.

The Guardian US News90/100Apr 17, 2026

Inside the CDC’s leadership vacuum: work at a ‘standstill’ and low morale as 80% of top posts remain vacant

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing a leadership vacuum, with 80% of its top director positions remaining vacant 14 months after Robert F Kennedy Jr was sworn in as US health secretary. Current and former officials warn that this situation has led to work at a 'standstill' and low morale within the agency. The lack of permanent leadership means no one is in place to coordinate critical day-to-day work fighting infectious disease, combatting heart conditions, or screening for cancer. This disarray under RFK Jr's direction is raising concerns that Americans’ health security is in danger.

Key Facts

President Trump nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to be the next director of the CDC.

Source: CBS News, PBS NewsHour, NPR

Schwartz is a former Coast Guard doctor with public health experience.

Source: NPR, CNN

The nomination comes as the CDC faces turmoil around leadership and vaccine policy.

Source: CNBC

Recent Highlights

August 8, 2024

President Trump announces nomination of Dr. Erica Schwartz for CDC director.

Full Coverage (22 articles)

Showing 20 of 22 articles

Apr 17, 2026

Photos show the ‘Build the Red Wall’ rally in Arizona, headlined by Trump - AP News

Photos from the ‘Build the Red Wall’ rally in Arizona show President Trump headlining the event. This rally highlights the administration's ongoing focus on border security and immigration enforcement, particularly in states bordering Mexico. The term "Red Wall" likely refers to a strategy to secure the southern border, echoing the "Build the Wall" slogan from his previous campaign. Such events serve to galvanize his political base and reinforce key policy priorities of the Trump administration. The visual documentation by AP News provides a public record of the event and its central figure.

OverlookedApr 17, 2026

Trump set to ease restrictions on psychedelic drug used to treat PTSD - Reuters

President Trump is set to ease restrictions on a psychedelic drug used to treat PTSD, according to Reuters. This move would significantly alter federal policy regarding substances that have historically faced strict regulations. The policy change aims to make the drug more accessible for medical research and therapeutic use, particularly for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Easing restrictions could accelerate clinical trials and potentially lead to new treatment options for a condition that affects millions. This action reflects a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics within the medical community.

OverlookedApr 17, 2026

Trump picks qualified, normal health leader to head CDC; experts still cautious

President Trump on Thursday announced Dr. Erica Schwartz as his third nominee for director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Schwartz is a former deputy surgeon general in Trump's first administration and a retired rear-admiral of the US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. This uncontroversial pick aims to address concerns within the administration regarding Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s anti-vaccine agenda, which is seen as a liability before the midterms. Schwartz, a board-certified physician in preventive medicine, publicly supports vaccination and was involved in the federal rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. She holds a medical degree from Brown University and a master's degree in public health.

Apr 17, 2026

Trump Nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to head the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), announced in an April 16 Truth Social post. Dr. Schwartz, a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service and Coast Guard, previously served as chief medical officer for the U.S. Coast Guard and as deputy to then-Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams during the first Trump Administration. Her nomination follows nearly eight months without an official director and a tumultuous period for CDC leadership during Trump's second term. The White House withdrew a previous nominee, Dr. David Weldon, and Susan Monarez served as director for only about four weeks before being ousted over policy disagreements. Dr. Schwartz now faces Senate confirmation.

OverlookedApr 17, 2026

Inside the CDC’s leadership vacuum: work at a ‘standstill’ and low morale as 80% of top posts remain vacant

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing a leadership vacuum, with 80% of its top director positions remaining vacant 14 months after Robert F Kennedy Jr was sworn in as US health secretary. Current and former officials warn that this situation has led to work at a 'standstill' and low morale within the agency. The lack of permanent leadership means no one is in place to coordinate critical day-to-day work fighting infectious disease, combatting heart conditions, or screening for cancer. This disarray under RFK Jr's direction is raising concerns that Americans’ health security is in danger.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz for new CDC director

President Trump nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz as the new director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday. Dr. Schwartz is a former deputy surgeon general and a retired Coast Guard rear admiral. This nomination signals the Trump administration's choice to lead the nation's primary public health agency. Her appointment will require Senate confirmation to take effect.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump to Nominate Dr. Erica Schwartz, a Vaccine Supporter, as CDC Director - The New York Times

President Donald Trump intends to nominate Dr. Erica Schwartz as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This decision signals the Trump administration's choice for a leader of the nation's primary public health agency. Dr. Schwartz is identified as a vaccine supporter, a stance that could influence public health policy and messaging regarding immunizations. Her nomination comes at a time when the CDC's role in national health strategy, including vaccine promotion and disease prevention, remains critical. The Senate must confirm Dr. Schwartz for her to assume the directorship.

OverlookedApr 16, 2026

Trump to Nominate Dr. Erica Schwartz, a Vaccine Supporter, as CDC Director

President Trump plans to nominate Dr. Erica Schwartz as the next Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Schwartz is described as a highly qualified, traditional choice and a supporter of vaccines. This nomination signals a shift by the Trump administration away from vaccine skepticism, particularly during an election year. Her appointment would place a mainstream public health figure at the helm of the nation's primary disease prevention agency.

Apr 16, 2026

Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, nominated to be next CDC director by Trump

President Trump has nominated Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to be the next director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination follows over a year of leadership instability at the Atlanta-based agency since President Trump's return to office. The CDC, responsible for safeguarding Americans from preventable health threats, has operated with a succession of mostly temporary leaders during this period. Schwartz's nomination aims to provide permanent leadership to the critical public health organization.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump chooses establishment pick to head CDC - Politico

President Donald Trump has selected an "establishment pick" to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This decision signals a potential shift in the administration's approach to public health leadership, opting for a candidate perceived as mainstream rather than an unconventional choice. The appointment of an establishment figure could aim to restore public trust or ensure smoother operations within the federal health agency. This move comes as the CDC continues to play a critical role in national health policy and disease prevention under the current administration.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates former deputy surgeon general to lead CDC - Axios

President Trump has nominated a former deputy surgeon general to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This appointment comes as the Trump administration continues to shape its public health leadership for the current term. The nomination is significant because the CDC plays a critical role in national health policy, disease prevention, and emergency response. The individual, if confirmed, would oversee the agency's operations and strategies, impacting public health initiatives across the United States.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates former Coast Guard doctor as CDC chief - NPR

President Donald Trump has nominated a former Coast Guard doctor to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This appointment is significant as the CDC is a crucial federal agency responsible for public health, disease control, and prevention efforts in the United States. The nomination signals the Trump administration's choice for a new leader at a time when the agency's role in national health policy remains prominent. This individual, identified only as a former Coast Guard doctor, would replace the current CDC director if confirmed. The selection of a new CDC chief will influence the agency's direction and priorities under the current administration.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates former Coast Guard doctor as CDC chief

President Donald Trump has nominated a former Coast Guard doctor to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination follows months of interim leadership at the public health agency. The White House has not yet announced a timeline for the Senate confirmation process.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates former deputy surgeon general to lead CDC

President Trump on Thursday nominated his former deputy surgeon general Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Trump called Schwartz "a STAR!" in a Truth Social post and also appointed Sean Slovenski as CDC deputy director and chief operating officer. If confirmed, Schwartz would lead an agency that has been without a permanent political leader since Susan Monarez was fired in August. The CDC director is subject to Senate confirmation, and Schwartz has a traditional public health background, including 24 years in uniformed service as a rear admiral of the Coast Guard. Trump also named Jennifer Shuford as deputy director and chief medical officer, and Sara Brenner as senior counselor for public health to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, for CDC director - NBC News

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz, the former deputy surgeon general, to serve as the next director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination signals the Trump administration's choice for leadership at the nation's primary public health agency. Dr. Schwartz previously served in a high-ranking public health role within the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Her selection comes as the CDC continues its work on various public health initiatives and disease prevention strategies. The nomination will now proceed to the Senate for confirmation.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates Erica Schwartz, ex-deputy surgeon general, as CDC director

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Trump announced his selection on Truth Social, ending a months-long search for a permanent director for the public health agency. Dr. Schwartz previously served as deputy surgeon general during Trump's first administration and holds the rank of rear admiral in the US Coast Guard. Her nomination signifies the Trump administration's choice to fill a key public health leadership role. This appointment will place Dr. Schwartz at the helm of the CDC, which has been described as a "troubled" agency.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump picks Erica Schwartz as next head of CDC - BBC

President Donald Trump has selected Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This appointment signifies a new direction for the nation's primary public health agency under the current administration. As head of the CDC, Schwartz will be responsible for guiding federal health policy, disease prevention, and public health initiatives. Her leadership will shape the White House's response to ongoing health challenges and future public health crises. This choice marks a significant personnel change within the executive branch's health infrastructure.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump announces he's nominating Dr. Erica Schwartz for CDC director

President Trump announced he is nominating Dr. Erica Schwartz to serve as the next director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination follows earlier reports from CBS News indicating Dr. Schwartz was the president's top choice for the role. The CDC is a critical federal agency responsible for protecting public health and safety through disease control and prevention. If confirmed, Dr. Schwartz would lead the agency's efforts in national health surveillance, research, and emergency response.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump picks former Deputy Surgeon General Erica Schwartz as new CDC nominee

President Trump nominated Erica Schwartz, a former Deputy Surgeon General, to serve as the new director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This marks the President's third nominee for the position, coming over six months after the previous director was fired. Schwartz previously held a senior health role in the President's first administration. Her nomination aims to fill a critical leadership vacancy at the nation's public health agency.

Apr 16, 2026

Trump nominates Dr. Erica Schwartz as new CDC director

President Donald Trump nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz as the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday. Dr. Schwartz previously served as a deputy surgeon general, bringing experience from a high-level public health role. This nomination signals the Trump administration's choice to lead the nation's primary public health agency. As CDC director, Dr. Schwartz would oversee federal efforts in disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness. Her appointment requires Senate confirmation to become official.