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CDC Acting Director Outlines Plan to Restore Public Trust
Jay Bhattacharya acknowledges federal decisions contributed to loss of trust, vows to focus on scientific integrity and transparency
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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In an introductory email to CDC staff, Acting Director Jay Bhattacharya acknowledged the agency has faced significant challenges in recent years, including abrupt leadership changes and a tragic shooting at its Atlanta campus. Bhattacharya blamed some federal decision-making for a loss of public trust, and outlined a plan to restore that trust through a renewed focus on scientific integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Why it matters
The CDC is a cornerstone of American public health, and rebuilding trust in the agency is crucial for its ability to effectively protect the public. Bhattacharya's message signals an effort to course-correct after a turbulent period and reassure both CDC staff and the broader public.
The details
In his email, Bhattacharya recognized the "extraordinary pressure" and "personal cost" many CDC employees have faced in recent years. He admitted that "some of the Federal government's decisions, communications, and processes contributed to confusion, frustration, and a loss of that trust." To address this, Bhattacharya outlined three core principles to guide the CDC's efforts: scientific integrity and humility, service to the American people, and accountability and openness. This includes strengthening internal review processes, encouraging dissent, and creating space for evidence-based debate.
- Bhattacharya sent the introductory email to CDC staff on Friday, February 23, 2026.
- Last summer, there was a shooting incident at the CDC's Roybal Campus in Atlanta.
The players
Jay Bhattacharya
The NIH Director who is currently serving as the Acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The leading national public health institute in the United States, charged with protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.
What they’re saying
“Public trust is the foundation of public health. Without it, even our best science cannot achieve its full impact. It is undeniable that some of the Federal government's decisions, communications, and processes contributed to confusion, frustration, and a loss of that trust.”
— Jay Bhattacharya, Acting Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (MedPage Today)
“Rebuilding trust takes time. But I am confident that together we can strengthen this agency, restore confidence in our work, and ensure that the CDC remains a cornerstone of American public health for generations to come.”
— Jay Bhattacharya, Acting Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (MedPage Today)
What’s next
Bhattacharya plans to focus on strengthening internal review processes, encouraging respectful dissent, and creating more space for evidence-based debate within the CDC as part of his effort to restore public trust in the agency.
The takeaway
Bhattacharya's message acknowledges the CDC's recent challenges and the need to rebuild public confidence in the agency. By emphasizing scientific integrity, transparency, and accountability, he aims to chart a path forward that will allow the CDC to fulfill its vital mission of protecting public health.
