Trump nominates Brown graduate Erica Schwartz as CDC director

Schwartz previously served as a senior advisor at the CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:27pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a government medical laboratory building in soft, warm lighting, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and uncertainty about the future direction of the agency.The nomination of a new CDC director signals a potential shift in the agency's leadership and direction during an ongoing public health crisis.Providence Today

President Donald Trump has nominated Erica Schwartz, a Brown University graduate, to serve as the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Schwartz previously held a senior advisory role at the CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Why it matters

The CDC director position is a critical public health leadership role, especially given the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Schwartz's nomination signals a potential shift in the agency's direction under the Trump administration.

The details

Erica Schwartz, a Brown University alumna, has been nominated by President Trump to lead the CDC. Schwartz previously served as a senior advisor at the CDC, providing guidance on the agency's COVID-19 response efforts. Her nomination comes as the CDC has faced criticism over its handling of the pandemic.

  • President Trump announced Schwartz's nomination on April 16, 2026.

The players

Erica Schwartz

A Brown University graduate who has been nominated by President Trump to serve as the new director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who announced Erica Schwartz's nomination to lead the CDC.

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What they’re saying

“Erica Schwartz's experience and expertise make her the ideal candidate to lead the CDC during this critical time.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

What’s next

The U.S. Senate must confirm Erica Schwartz's nomination before she can officially take on the role of CDC director.

The takeaway

Schwartz's nomination signals a potential shift in the CDC's leadership and direction under the Trump administration, which has faced criticism over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.