The CDC is currently engulfed in turmoil following the unexpected firing of its director, Susan Monarez, who was removed after a brief tenure amid allegations of politicization and hostility towards scientific guidance. Acting director Jim O’Neill, previously a deputy, has come under scrutiny due to his lack of medical training and previous work aiding controversial projects. The agency is witnessing a mass exodus of leaders, with several officials resigning in protest against what they frame as an anti-science shift under new leadership. The crisis has sparked bipartisan concerns over the state of public health in the U.S., leading to calls for accountability and discussions over the future direction of the CDC amid fears for national health risks.