Atlanta, Georgia – Employees at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are facing new restrictions on their ability to publish documents without review by the executive branch, according to current and former CDC officials. Despite some easing of the clampdown on external communications, political appointees installed by the Trump administration continue to impose layers of review, causing concern over potential job cuts at the agency.
Anonymously speaking about internal discussions, a senior CDC official revealed that the administration now controls the topics that can be covered and restricts what career scientists can publish. These instructions are predominantly conveyed verbally, with little to no information provided through written communication or emails, leading to a sense of uncertainty among staff.
A memo recently circulated among CDC employees emphasized compliance with Executive Orders in all external communications. This directive has implications on various areas, including urgent public health needs, advisories for clinicians, required communications, travel health notices, and routine business operations. However, the fate of scientific research is at risk, with authors being advised to withdraw manuscripts that conflict with the administration’s executive orders.
In response to these restrictions, concerns have arisen among CDC staff and former agency officials about the implications on public health. Dr. Anne Schuchat, a retired deputy director of CDC, expressed worry about the potential censorship of critical scientific communication that impacts Americans’ health. Dr. Sonja Rasmussen, a former CDC official, highlighted the negative effects on scientists who have devoted time and effort to their research.
The limitations imposed by the Trump administration have raised alarms among some medical journal editors, who oppose the directive to alter already accepted scientific work. Dr. Michael Iademarco, a former CDC official, expressed concerns that the deeper layers of review could obscure or suppress valid scientific data from reaching the public, further jeopardizing public health efforts.
In light of these challenges, there is a growing need for transparency and open communication within the CDC to ensure that critical public health information is not stifled. As the situation continues to unfold, the impact of these restrictions on the agency’s ability to safeguard public health remains a point of contention among current and former CDC officials.