President Trump Nominates Erica Schwartz as CDC Director

President Donald Trump has nominated Erica Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general, to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pending Senate confirmation. Schwartz, who served as Deputy Surgeon General from January 2019 to April 2021, brings extensive experience in public health and military medicine. She holds medical and law degrees and has held leadership roles in the U.S. Coast Guard and federal health agencies.

The CDC has been without a permanent director since the ousting of Susan Monarez in August 2025, just weeks after her confirmation. Monarez's departure followed disagreements with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over vaccine policies.

Schwartz's nomination is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restructure the CDC's leadership. Other recent appointments include Sean Slovenski as deputy director and COO, Dr. Jennifer Shuford as chief medical officer, and Dr. Sara Brenner as senior counselor for public health.

The nomination comes amid ongoing debates over vaccine policies and public health strategies within the administration. Schwartz's background in public health and her previous roles in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps are expected to play a significant role in shaping the CDC's direction during her tenure.