The Senate health committee delayed its scheduled vote Thursday on advancing the nomination of Dr. Erica Schwartz to serve as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Committee Chair Bill Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican, cited a family emergency as the reason for the postponement, stating it affected the number of Republicans required to be present for a vote. The committee indicated it would proceed with the vote during the following week.
During her confirmation hearing earlier in the month, Schwartz faced questioning about her ability to withstand political pressure, particularly from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. when such pressure might conflict with science-based decision-making. Cassidy, whose support is considered critical to the nomination’s advancement, reportedly told colleagues that he had concluded Schwartz could resist such pressure. Observers characterized the committee vote as likely to be close.
At 54 years old, Schwartz would become the 22nd director of the Atlanta-based CDC if confirmed by the full Senate. The position oversees the agency responsible for protecting Americans from preventable health threats. The CDC leadership vacancy represents one of several unfilled high-level positions within the Department of Health and Human Services following the return of President Donald Trump to office.
The committee also postponed action on another HHS nomination Thursday. Sean Kaufman, nominated to serve as assistant secretary for preparedness and response—a role involving oversight of readiness for public health emergencies—was scheduled to be discussed at the hearing. Senators had raised concerns about certain statements Kaufman made regarding vaccination. A committee spokesperson said ongoing conversations with the administration were occurring regarding the path forward for his nomination, which is scheduled for consideration July 30.
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