Joseph Ladapo is a frontrunner for CDC director

Joseph Ladapo, Florida's surgeon general, is emerging as a top candidate to run the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under Donald Trump. Ladapo has stirred controversy, previously calling COVID-19 vaccines the “anti-Christ.” He was initially chosen for the position by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. last November, and now has support from Trump allies. Trump's first choice for the role, former GOP Rep. Dave Weldon, had his appointment stopped after concerns about securing enough votes for confirmation. This has put pressure on the White House to make a careful choice for the next CDC leader. Ladapo, 46, has served as Florida’s chief medical advisor since 2021. He has gained attention for controversial statements, including those suggesting that mRNA vaccines may affect human DNA. He has also called for an end to fluoride in drinking water, claiming potential health risks that contradict established scientific understanding. Last year, during a measles outbreak, Ladapo did not advocate for vaccination and advised parents to make their own decisions about keeping unvaccinated children at home. This approach conflicted with CDC guidance and drew criticism from health officials. Ladapo rose to prominence by opposing many public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also promoted unproven treatments like hydroxychloroquine. Alongside him, former GOP Rep. Michael Burgess is also being considered for the CDC position. Burgess is a retired obstetrician known for leading the House’s doctors caucus.