Doctor Critical of Vaccines Quietly Named CDC’s No. 2 Leader

In an unexpected and largely unpublicized move, Dr. Ralph Lee Abraham — a longtime critic of several mainstream vaccine practices — has been quietly appointed as the principal deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, effectively becoming the agency’s second-highest-ranking official.

According to the CDC’s internal database, Dr. Abraham began the role on November 23, though no formal announcement came from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Several CDC employees reportedly learned of the appointment only after it appeared in internal records. The Substack newsletter Inside Medicine first drew public attention to the change.

An HHS spokesperson confirmed the appointment but offered no further details. Dr. Abraham has not yet responded to requests for comment.

A Controversial Track Record

Dr. Abraham’s selection has sparked debate due to his past actions and statements regarding vaccines and Covid-19 treatments.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he vocally promoted discredited therapies such as ivermectin, and, while serving as Louisiana’s surgeon general, he directed the state health department to halt mass vaccination outreach—a move widely criticized by public health experts.

Dr. Abraham has also described Covid vaccines as “dangerous,” a claim that contradicts extensive scientific evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness.

Policy Views Echoing Kennedy’s Stance

Some of Dr. Abraham’s positions mirror those of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has long questioned vaccine safety standards.

Among his public views:

• Advising pregnant women to avoid Tylenol except when “absolutely necessary,” citing a possible link to autism—an association not supported by major medical organizations.
• Advocating an end to routine hepatitis B vaccination for newborns.
• Calling for the removal of certain vaccine ingredients, such as aluminum salts, which have been used safely for decades to enhance immune response.

Uncertain Impact, Rising Concern

The quiet nature of the appointment has fueled speculation within federal health circles about how Dr. Abraham’s leadership might influence future CDC policy—especially at a time when public trust in health institutions remains fragile.

As the agency adjusts to its new leadership structure, many will be watching closely to see how Dr. Abraham’s long-held views intersect with the CDC’s science-driven mission.