The U.S. Senate has confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), giving the public health agency its first permanent, Senate-confirmed leader in nearly a year.
According to the report, Schwartz was approved in a 51-44 vote, becoming the CDC's 22nd director.
The report said Schwartz assumes leadership at a time of significant upheaval within the agency.
Since President Donald Trump returned to office, the CDC has lost more than 3,000 employees through layoffs and resignations, reducing its workforce by more than one-quarter and affecting agency operations.
Senator Bill Cassidy, who had initially expressed concerns about Schwartz's independence, ultimately backed her nomination following further discussions.
According to the report, Schwartz brings experience in medicine, law and Coast Guard leadership as she seeks to restore stability, improve staff morale and guide the CDC through continuing public health and administrative challenges.
Related Tweet:
The Senate voted along party lines Wednesday to confirm Dr. Erica Schwartz as the next director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://t.co/ay0d8fgJ8L
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) August 5, 2026
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
