CDC Names New Second-in-Command with Controversial Stance on Healthcare and Vaccines

Dr. Ralph Lee Abraham, a 70-year-old former Republican congressman, has been quietly installed as the principal deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, effective November 23. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Abraham's appointment after it was first spotted by Dr. Jeremy Faust, who runs the Substack called Inside Medicine. According to the CDC's internal database, Abraham's appointment aligns the agency's senior leadership with the views of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime vaccine skeptic. Abraham has expressed concerns about vaccines, calling them "dangerous" in the past. In his new role, Abraham will serve as the second-highest official at the CDC, working closely with Director Rochelle Walensky. Abraham's views on vaccines and public health policies have been a subject of controversy. As the Louisiana surgeon general, he halted the state's vaccine promotion campaigns and delayed warning the public about a deadly whooping cough outbreak. Abraham has also promoted discredited COVID-19 treatments, including ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine. According to Faust, Abraham was the seventh-highest prescriber of ivermectin among Louisiana's roughly 12,000 practicing physicians in 2021, personally accounting for 1.1% of the state's prescriptions for the anti-parasitic medication. Abraham's background as a former congressman and surgeon general provides a unique perspective on public health policy. He served three terms representing Louisiana's 5th congressional district and has been a vocal advocate for repealing the Affordable Care Act. In a statement, Abraham expressed his commitment to improving public health and promoting access to healthcare, but his views on vaccines and healthcare policies remain a concern for many public health experts. The appointment of Abraham as the CDC's principal deputy director has raised questions about the agency's direction under the Biden administration. Some public health experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact of Abraham's views on vaccine policy and public health initiatives. "This appointment is a concerning development for public health," said Dr. Peter Hotez, a vaccine expert at Baylor College of Medicine. "We need leaders who prioritize evidence-based policies and promote vaccination as a key tool in preventing infectious diseases." The CDC has not commented on the potential implications of Abraham's views on vaccine policy. However, the agency has emphasized its commitment to promoting evidence-based public health policies and protecting the health and safety of Americans. As the CDC continues to navigate the complex landscape of public health policy, Abraham's appointment will likely be closely watched by public health experts and policymakers. In a statement, the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Abraham's appointment and emphasized his commitment to improving public health. "Dr. Abraham brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CDC, and we look forward to working with him to promote public health and protect the health and safety of Americans," said a spokesperson for the department.