The CDC Has a Leadership Crisis

Wired

by Emily Mullin

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is facing a leadership crisis under President Donald Trump's second term, with no permanent director appointed despite a 2023 law requiring Senate confirmation for the role. This has left the agency reliant on acting directors, including Jay Bhattacharya, who now leads both the CDC and NIH temporarily. The situation reflects ongoing political challenges, as Republicans pushed for Senate confirmation to rein in what they view as unchecked power at the CDC. The lack of stable leadership has led to significant disruptions. Acting directors have come under criticism, with Bhattacharya known for his vocal critiques of the agency's COVID-19 response. The CDC has also suffered mass layoffs, reducing its workforce by about a quarter, and state health departments are losing crucial support. This instability has raised concerns among experts like Ronald Nahass, who warn that without strong leadership, the CDC is ill-prepared to handle public health crises. The situation highlights broader issues in U.S. governance and public health infrastructure. The requirement for Senate confirmation was intended as a check on the CDC's power but has instead created prolonged uncertainty. This matters for tech and science, as the CDC plays a critical role in disease surveillance, response, and policy. Its weakened state could hinder innovation and collaboration in healthcare technology, affecting both public health outcomes and technological advancements in medical research. The ongoing leadership vacuum underscores political tensions over agency autonomy. Critics argue that temporary directors, often aligned with administration priorities, undermine scientific integrity and disrupt essential public health functions. The CDC's instability not only impacts its ability to respond to outbreaks but also raises concerns about the long-term health of the nation's disease prevention efforts and technological capabilities in healthcare. In summary, the CDC's

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Originally published on Wired on 2/20/2026