US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy said Thursday that firing the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was “absolutely necessary” to restore high standards, as he faced blistering criticism from Democrats urging him to resign.
“We need bold, competent and creative new leadership at CDC, people able and willing to chart a new course,” he told a Senate hearing marked by sharp exchanges that at times erupted into shouting matches.
His remarks came days after the ouster of Sue Monarez, which, along with several high-level resignations, has plunged the nation’s top public health agency into turmoil.
Ron Wyden, the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee leading the hearing, opened by demanding Kennedy be sworn in under oath, accusing him of lying in previous written testimony.
“It is in the country’s best interest that Robert Kennedy step down, and if he doesn’t, Donald Trump should fire him before more people are hurt,” Wyden thundered.
The request was rejected by the Republican chairman, Senator Mike Crapo, who praised Kennedy for his focus on chronic disease, including the obesity crisis.
