Startling internal communications have exposed how Trump administration officials deliberately barred career scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from performing their duties during the 2019 government shutdown, despite mounting health threats.
Political Meddling in Public Health
According to emails obtained by The Independent, political appointees within the Department of Health and Human Services actively prevented CDC staff from working on crucial public health matters, even as the agency faced multiple emerging crises.
The documents reveal a disturbing pattern of political interference in scientific work, with one senior CDC official expressing frustration that they were "not allowed to send anything out" despite having "relevant info" about ongoing health threats.
Critical Work Halted Amid Growing Threats
During the 35-day shutdown - the longest in US history - CDC experts found themselves barred from addressing:
- Multiple deadly flu outbreaks across the country
- A dangerous hepatitis A epidemic
- Critical food safety investigations
- Essential public health communications
One particularly concerning email chain shows officials discussing whether to classify certain public health activities as "essential" or "non-essential" during the funding lapse.
Whistleblower Concerns Ignored
The revelations come from documents provided by a whistleblower to the House Democrats' Oversight Committee. Committee Chairman Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi described the findings as "deeply disturbing," noting that "preventing CDC experts from working to protect the public's health during a shutdown is unacceptable."
The emails suggest political considerations often overrode scientific judgment, with one official noting they were told to "stand down" on certain public health matters despite clear evidence of emerging threats.
Broader Implications for Future Crises
These disclosures raise serious questions about how political interference might affect responses to future health emergencies, including potential pandemic scenarios. The timing is particularly significant given current global health concerns.
Public health experts warn that such political meddling could have devastating consequences during genuine health crises, undermining America's preparedness and response capabilities.
