Senator Rand Paul sharply questioned former CDC Director Susan Monarez on her firing and vaccine policies during a Senate hearing on September 17, 2025. Paul accused Monarez of being dismissed last month for supporting infant vaccination, specifically at six months old.
- Rand Paul criticized Susan Monarez's firing at CDC
- Monarez was dismissed after clashes with HHS Secretary Kennedy
- Paul questioned vaccine efficacy for children under 18
- Monarez defended CDC's vaccine recommendations and science
- Monarez was confirmed as CDC director in July 2025
- Jim O’Neill is acting CDC director after Monarez
During the hearing, Paul criticized Monarez for resisting the firing of staff who supported early childhood COVID vaccinations. He claimed she was targeted for promoting vaccines at six months, while others were dismissed for opposing it. Monarez countered that her experience did not align with Paul’s accusations. She also explained that CDC provides evidence-based recommendations, leaving vaccination decisions to parents and doctors. The hearing focused on vaccine efficacy and policy, with Paul questioning the science behind vaccinating infants and the administration’s stance.
- Rand Paul accused CDC of firing staff for vaccine advocacy, not misconduct.
- Monarez confirmed she was dismissed after clashing with HHS Secretary Kennedy over vaccine recommendations.
- Paul questioned the effectiveness of COVID vaccines for children under 18.
- He also raised concerns about hepatitis B vaccine policies for newborns, suggesting potential changes under Kennedy’s leadership.
The exchange underscores political tensions around vaccine science and CDC authority, with implications for future immunization policies.
Monarez was confirmed as CDC director on July 29, 2025, becoming the first Senate-approved CDC chief. She is now replaced temporarily by HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill.
