Senate health committee approves CDC director and HHS assistant secretary nominees
Axios · July 30, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
The Senate health committee voted to approve Erica Schwartz as director of the CDC and Sean Kaufman for the role of assistant secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services. Schwartz was approved by a vote of 12-10, while Kaufman was approved by 12-11. These nominations are now set for consideration by the full Senate.
Why it matters
The confirmations could impact public health leadership and policies in the United States.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are a parent?
The confirmation of the CDC director and HHS assistant secretary could influence public health policies that affect children's health, including vaccination programs and school health guidelines.
How does this story affect you if you are a patient?
The leadership at the CDC and HHS can shape health policies that directly impact patient care, disease prevention, and access to healthcare services.
How does this story affect you if you are a small business owner?
Health policies set by the new CDC and HHS leaders may affect workplace health regulations, employee health coverage, and public health initiatives that can influence business operations.
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