Susan Monarez is stepping into her role as the new C.D.C. director at one of the agency's most turbulent moments. She’s staring down a perfect storm of challenges—budget cuts, layoffs, political pressure, and a boss (likely the president or health secretary) pushing for major changes in how public health operates. Her confirmation hearing last month was just the beginning; now comes the hard part.

Editor’s Note: The C.D.C. is a cornerstone of America’s health infrastructure, and its effectiveness impacts everything from disease outbreaks to everyday wellness programs. If Monarez can’t navigate these hurdles, it could weaken the agency’s ability to protect public health—especially after years of pandemic-fueled scrutiny. This isn’t just bureaucratic drama; it’s about whether the U.S. can maintain trust in its health leadership.

The Senate has confirmed Susan Monarez as the new director of the CDC, marking two historic firsts: she’s the first CDC chief to undergo Senate confirmation and the first in over 70 years without a medical degree.