Anti-Vaccine Doctor Named CDC Deputy Under RFK Jr.

Louisiana's top health official, a vocal skeptic of COVID vaccines, set to become second-highest ranking official at the CDC.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a glowing, neon outline of a syringe or medical symbol against a dark background, conceptually representing the debate over vaccine skepticism in public health leadership.The controversial appointment of an anti-vaccine doctor to a top CDC role raises concerns about the future of public health policy and the agency's credibility.Lake Charles Today

Hold onto your seats, because this appointment is about to shake up the public health world: Louisiana's top health official, a vocal skeptic of the COVID vaccine, is set to become the deputy director of the CDC. Dr. Ralph Abraham, who once called COVID vaccines 'dangerous' and has actively discouraged their promotion, will now be the second-highest ranking official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Why it matters

This move has sparked intense debate, with critics arguing it could undermine the agency's credibility and public trust in science. Abraham's views could provide a 'scientific gloss' to anti-vaccine theories, potentially endangering public health. Neither Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. nor acting CDC Director Jim O'Neill have medical or scientific backgrounds, making Abraham's medical degree a powerful tool for advancing their agenda.

The details

Dr. Abraham, a former Republican congressman and physician, first made headlines in 2019 when he spoke at a Trump re-election rally in Lake Charles, Louisiana. In 2024, he was appointed as Louisiana's first Surgeon General under Governor Jeff Landry. Almost immediately, he banned the state health department from promoting COVID, flu, and mpox vaccines. This led to Louisiana facing its worst whooping cough outbreak in 35 years, with two infant deaths.

  • In 2019, Dr. Abraham spoke at a Trump re-election rally in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
  • In 2024, Dr. Abraham was appointed as Louisiana's first Surgeon General under Governor Jeff Landry.
  • Shortly after his appointment, Dr. Abraham banned the state health department from promoting COVID, flu, and mpox vaccines.

The players

Dr. Ralph Abraham

A former Republican congressman and physician who is a vocal skeptic of COVID vaccines and has been appointed as the deputy director of the CDC.

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

The Health Secretary who does not have a medical or scientific background.

Jim O'Neill

The acting CDC Director who does not have a medical or scientific background.

Dr. Nirav Shah

The former CDC Principal Deputy Director who called the appointment of Dr. Abraham 'atrocious'.

Anne Schuchat

A 33-year CDC veteran who labeled the appointment of Dr. Abraham 'scary'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.