Susan Monarez, the director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was fired on Wednesday but has refused to leave her post. Monarez’s legal team claims she cannot be removed unless President Donald Trump himself terminates her, arguing that recent statements from the White House do not constitute valid removal.
Monarez, an infectious disease specialist confirmed as CDC chief just a month ago, was reportedly ousted by the Department of Health and Human Services, which provided no explanation for her departure. However, she has resisted leaving, with her lawyers asserting that only the president can dismiss her. “As a presidential appointee, senate confirmed officer, only the president himself can fire her,” stated Monarez’s attorney Mark Zaid on Bluesky.
The White House defended the decision, stating Monarez was not aligned with Trump’s agenda and had refused to resign despite being asked. A spokesperson for Trump, Kush Desai, claimed the administration had terminated her from the CDC. Meanwhile, RFK Jr. suggested the firing marked the start of efforts to purge “rot” from U.S. health agencies.
Monarez’s lawyers accused the White House of political pressure, citing her refusal to comply with directives they called “unscientific and reckless.” They emphasized she had not received formal notification of termination and would not resign. The standoff continues as legal battles unfold over her official status.