The Trump administration has laid off dozens of CDC employees, including elite disease detectives, senior scientists, and staff across several critical divisions. The move came during the ongoing government shutdown, with many employees notified by late-night emails.
US is currently experiencing a partial government shutdown that commenced on October 1, 2025, due to a deadlock in Congress over funding issues. President Trump has initiated significant workforce reductions across federal agencies, citing the shutdown as an opportunity to downsize government operations.
The affected personnel include officers from the Epidemic Intelligence Service, lab leadership fellows, and staff in the Global Health Center and the National Center for Immunization. Some entire offices have been dissolved. Officials reportedly told staff their positions were now considered redundant. The CDC and the White House have not issued an official statement.
Why This Matters?
- Cutting disease surveillance teams during a shutdown weakens the nation’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks.
- The layoffs affect core public health functions including respiratory diseases, chronic conditions, and global health programs.
- Experts warn this could erode the country’s credibility in international health cooperation and weaken long-term resilience.
“You cannot cut your way to safety,” said one public health expert. “This is dismantling the systems that protect people before a crisis begins.”
What Happens Next?
The administration’s broader downsizing plan across federal health agencies is still unfolding. Public health groups, scientific bodies, and unions are preparing to challenge the decision, arguing it poses a serious threat to national health security. Congressional oversight may be sought, and there is discussion around reinstating critical positions if budget revisions occur.
For now, the cuts mark one of the largest disruptions to the CDC’s scientific workforce in recent years, raising questions about the nation’s readiness to face future outbreaks.
