In a surprising twist that has left many in shock 😮, the Trump administration has initiated mass layoffs affecting about 10,000 staffers from major U.S. health agencies, including the FDA, CDC, and NIH. This move is part of a broad strategy led by President Trump and his billionaire ally Elon Musk to trim spending and reduce what officials call an overgrown bureaucracy.
Reports indicate that security guards even barred entry to some employees just hours after they received their dismissal notices, leading to long lines and a chaotic scene at agency entrances. Among those affected are top scientists and experts who have dedicated years to public health, cancer research, and the approval of vaccines and drugs.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that these cuts are necessary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to focus on its mission of preventing chronic diseases. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the United States' ability to respond to public health emergencies, such as the measles outbreak and the spreading bird flu.
Former officials have expressed unease about this drastic overhaul, warning that stripping away seasoned professionals could leave a void difficult to fill. With fresh faces stepping into leadership roles, many are watching closely to see how the agencies will rebuild and restore vital institutional knowledge.
This dramatic shake-up in the U.S. health sector is a clear reminder of how rapidly public institutions can change. Stay tuned as more details emerge on the impact of these sweeping layoffs and what they mean for the future of public health!
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Trump begins mass layoffs at FDA, CDC, other U.S. health agencies
cgtn.com
