On Friday, Joe Biden announced that Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), would leaving her position in June. In her resignation letter, Walensky wrote, “The end of the COVID-19 public health emergency marks a tremendous transition for our country, for public health, and in my tenure as CDC Director.”
“I took on this role, at your request, with the goal of leaving behind the dark days of the pandemic and moving CDC – and public health – forward into a much better and more trusted place,” she continued in her letter to the president.
Walensky also stated that “one of my goals was leaving behind the dark days of the pandemic and moving CDC — and public health — forward into a much better and more trusted place.”
The White House responded by applauding the doctor for her work. “Dr. Walensky has saved lives with her steadfast and unwavering focus on the health of every American. As Director of the CDC, she led a complex organization on the frontlines of a once-in-a-generation pandemic with honesty and integrity. She marshalled our finest scientists and public health experts to turn the tide on the urgent crises we’ve faced,” said Biden.
“She leaves CDC a stronger institution, better positioned to confront health threats and protect Americans. We have all benefited from her service and dedication to public health, and I wish her the best in her next chapter,” he added.
Walensky faced criticism for her policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many saying she supported to continuation of online learning far into 2021. She also worked closely with teacher unions and rejected working and listening to parents.
