The White House has selected Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services Jim O’Neill to serve as acting director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The decision comes after the dismissal of Susan Monarez, who held the position for approximately a month.

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlighted O’Neill’s background in technology and government, stating he is “ideally suited to transition HHS into a technological innovation powerhouse.” He emphasized plans to leverage AI, telemedicine, and other advancements to improve healthcare delivery. O’Neill, who joined HHS in June after years as a Silicon Valley-based investor, previously worked under the George W. Bush administration on food regulation and emergency response initiatives.

The appointment follows internal turmoil at the CDC, including high-profile resignations and public protests by agency staff. Employees gathered to honor departing officials such as Dr. Debra Houry and Dr. Jennifer Layden. RFK Jr. has criticized the CDC’s past policies, citing “bizarre recommendations” and “misinformation” during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlighted the agency’s inclusion of contentious topics like abortion and fluoridation in its list of medical achievements.

O’Neill, who lacks formal training in medicine or infectious disease science, has faced scrutiny for supporting unproven treatments like ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine during the pandemic. He also shared social media claims questioning the origin of the COVID-19 virus. The CDC is set to convene vaccine advisers soon, with O’Neill expected to influence new guidelines on vaccine distribution.