Restore CDC Staffing and Protect Public Health Infrastructure

I am writing to express my grave concern over the recent reduction in force (RIF) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal agencies. This drastic cut of over 4,000 federal employees, including more than 1,100 from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), predominantly at the CDC, is not only illegal and unconstitutional but also poses a severe threat to our nation's public health infrastructure. The timing of these cuts, implemented during a government shutdown by the Trump administration, raises serious questions about their legality and the process by which they were executed. More importantly, the consequences of this action are potentially catastrophic for public health in the United States. Critical CDC functions have been severely impacted, including epidemic response, immunization programs, chronic disease management, and public health communication. This leaves our nation vulnerable to disease outbreaks and potential pandemics. Of particular concern is the current H5N1 avian flu outbreak in poultry, which could potentially adapt to human-to-human transmission. Without adequate staffing and resources at the CDC, our ability to respond to such a threat is severely compromised. Furthermore, these cuts come at a time when Congress has already reduced healthcare funding for millions of Americans. This double blow to our public health system is unacceptable and puts countless lives at risk. We face the very real possibility of losing our measles elimination status and being unable to effectively respond to future health crises. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse these cuts and restore our public health capacity. Specifically, I ask that you: 1. Speak out publicly against these illegal and dangerous staff reductions. 2. Work with your colleagues in Congress to pass emergency legislation to reinstate the dismissed CDC and other federal agency scientists and staff. 3. Investigate the actions of Russell Vought and others responsible for implementing these cuts, ensuring they are held accountable for any illegal dismantling of government agencies. 4. Increase funding for the CDC and other public health agencies to strengthen our nation's ability to prevent and respond to health threats. The health and safety of our nation depend on a robust public health infrastructure. We cannot afford to compromise this critical system. I implore you to act swiftly and decisively to protect the American people by restoring our public health workforce and capabilities.