Health Secretary RFK Jr. to Testify Senate After CDC Director Ouster

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to testify before the Senate Finance Committee on September 4, providing lawmakers a chance to question him directly about President Donald Trump's 2026 health care agenda and the recent dramatic changes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The hearing comes shortly after the firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez, who is now legally challenging her dismissal, and the resignation of three top CDC officials. The White House and President Trump have asserted that Trump himself fired Monarez after she refused to step down at Kennedy's request. Democrats, including Sen. Jon Ossoff, have strongly criticized the shakeup, labeling Kennedy as a "quack" and warning that the administration's handling of public health risks lives. Kennedy defended the changes, stating the CDC is in trouble and may require new leadership. Senators such as Bill Cassidy have emphasized the need for oversight following these high-profile departures, with the hearing also expected to address the broader public health strategy ahead of the 2026 budget cycle.