Posted on 03/23/2025 9:49:45 AM PDT by CondoleezzaProtege
Florida's controversial surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, and a former Texas Republican congressman, Dr. Michael Burgess, are each being backed by some of President Trump's allies to be the next head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The White House is searching for a replacement after the nomination of Dr. Dave Weldon, a former Florida congressman, was abruptly pulled last week.
White House officials have said internally that they are trying to "get it right" with their next pick, multiple administration officials said, seeking to address concerns about a prolonged vacancy at the agency or the prospect of another embarrassing about-face. Some potential contenders have also turned down offers for the role, federal health officials said.
As Florida's surgeon general since 2021, Dr. Joseph Ladapo has drawn controversy on a number of issues, including contradicting federal guidance on COVID vaccines and for his handling of local measles outbreaks. But he has some prominent supporters.
Dr. David Weldon said Thursday, a week after his own nomination was pulled, that Ladapo should be at the top of President Trump's list to lead the CDC.
Weldon's backing of Dr. Joseph Ladapo comes days after Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis renewed his own support of the state's top doctor for the slot.
Another person widely seen as a leading contender for the role is former Republican Congressman Michael Burgess of Texas. Burgess, a former obstetrician and gynecologist, had led the House's doctors' caucus for years before he retired this year.
Burgess supported COVID-19 vaccines early during the pandemic, as well as urging constituents to follow the CDC's guidance, but later criticized the agency's lingering mask mandate for public transportation as "nonsense policies."
(Excerpt) Read more at cbsnews.com ...
The real thorn in all of this, more than Senator Susan Collins, has been Senator Bill Cassidy, who has been a thorn in Trump’s side both MAHA wise as a Big Pharma sycophant and RFK doubter — and MAGA wise, voting to impeach him in 2021. 😠
I would second the idea of Ladapo getting the job, he’s smart and fearless and was key in how Florida dealt with Covid.
Ladapo, or an acting appt for a good pick. Not Burgess!!
Lapado one hour interview on Tucker Today - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhtlYsv9bxU
sigh appearing on Tucker is a liability for Senate hearings
I absolutely LOVE the surgeon general of FL. I hope he is the pick!!!
Dr Burgess was my Congressman for 22 years. A fine human being and great public servant. He would do a great job if chosen.
Controversial because he disagrees with CBS News and Yahoo?
“A fine human being and great public servant. He would do a great job if chosen.”
I was never sure he advocated for the vaxx. I never saw a reliable local source report on it. He would tell the truth if asked.
would be curious to know Rand’s take on this.
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