CDC Deputy Director Abruptly Resigns Amid Leadership Turmoil
Principal deputy director Ralph Abraham left effective immediately citing 'unforeseen family obligations' as the CDC grapples with multiple leadership exits and controversies.
Overview
Dr. Ralph Abraham stepped down as the CDC's principal deputy director effective immediately, the agency said, citing 'unforeseen family obligations.'
The agency has been largely without its most-senior leadership for the majority of President Donald Trump’s second term, the CDC said.
Abraham said in a CDC statement that it 'has been an honor to serve alongside the dedicated public health professionals at the CDC.'
Critics pointed to Abraham's record as Louisiana surgeon general, including a delayed public alert amid a whooping cough rise that was followed by two infant deaths, and his past criticism of COVID vaccines.
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, who is also NIH director, is serving as acting CDC director, and a CDC vaccine advisory committee meeting scheduled for later in February will not be held, with no new dates announced.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the CDC shake-up as chaotic and politicized, using loaded terms ("abruptly," "beleaguered," "controversial") and foregrounding critical experts, resignations, and funding cuts to imply systemic dysfunction. Editorial choices shape the narrative; source content (Abraham’s short statement, Monarez’s testimony) is cited as supporting evidence within that frame.
Sources (7)
FAQ
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, who is also the NIH director, is serving as acting CDC director.
Dr. Ralph Abraham cited 'unforeseen family obligations' for his immediate resignation as principal deputy director.
Critics highlighted his record as Louisiana surgeon general, including a delayed public alert during a whooping cough rise that led to two infant deaths, and his past criticism of COVID vaccines.
The CDC has been largely without its most-senior leadership for much of President Trump’s second term, with previous acting director Jim O’Neill departing and prior director Susan Monarez fired shortly after Senate confirmation.
Recent issues include leadership infighting, a gunman’s attack on the CDC, protest resignations, a large West Texas measles outbreak marking the worst measles year in 30 years, and cancellation of a vaccine advisory committee meeting.
History
4 sources