Senate HELP Committee probes CDC director nominee over potential political pressure on vaccine decisions

Senate HELP Committee held a confirmation hearing for the Trump administration's CDC director nominee, Erica Schwartz, and pressed her on the possibility of political interference.

Lawmakers asked whether she would cave to political pressure when making vaccine-related decisions, underscoring concerns about the agency's independence.

The CDC has operated without a permanent director for most of the current administration, creating uncertainty about its leadership and policy direction.

The hearing illustrates growing scrutiny of public‑health agencies amid ongoing debates over vaccine guidance and political influence.