WASHINGTON, D.C. — President-elect Donald Trump has named former Florida Representative Dave Weldon, a physician and vocal skeptic of federal vaccine policies, as his pick to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Weldon’s appointment signals a potential shift in the agency’s direction, particularly regarding vaccine safety and public health oversight.
A History of Vaccine Skepticism
During his nearly two-decade tenure in Congress, Weldon raised significant concerns about vaccine safety. He introduced legislation to transfer vaccine safety oversight from the CDC to an independent agency within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Weldon has questioned the safety of specific vaccines, including the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and Gardasil, which protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Weldon has also linked thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative once commonly used in vaccines, to autism, despite repeated studies debunking this claim. In a past statement, Weldon criticized federal agencies for failing to adequately fund independent vaccine research and allowing conflicts of interest to undermine public trust in vaccines.
Support from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Trump’s pick for HHS Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has praised Weldon’s advocacy.
“Congressman Dave Weldon has exposed how the CDC prioritizes expanding its vaccine program over ensuring safety,” Kennedy said in an interview with Children’s Health Defense, the anti-vaccine group he founded.
Kennedy and Weldon share a critical stance on the CDC’s vaccine policies, which they argue have been influenced by the pharmaceutical industry.
Trump’s Vision for the CDC
Trump called Weldon a “respected conservative leader” and emphasized his role in restoring public confidence in the CDC.
“Americans have lost trust in the CDC and our federal health authorities,” Trump said. “Dr. Weldon will help correct past errors and refocus the agency on disease prevention and public health solutions.”
The CDC is currently addressing critical public health threats, including:
- A significant outbreak of H5N1 avian flu in dairy cattle, which has infected dozens of humans and poses a potential pandemic risk.
- A more virulent strain of mpox spreading rapidly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond.
Weldon’s Broader Legacy
Beyond public health, Weldon gained national attention in the early 2000s for his role in the Terri Schiavo case, introducing legislation to force federal review of her vegetative state diagnosis. Weldon, a staunch conservative, has also been a vocal advocate against late-term abortions and has cited Jesus Christ as one of his greatest influences.
Key Challenges Ahead
If confirmed, Weldon will face scrutiny over his controversial views on vaccines and his ability to lead the CDC during a critical time for global health. His appointment reflects a broader rethinking of public health priorities under the incoming Trump administration.
COMMENTS