WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dr. Robert Malone has resigned from his position as vice chair of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), citing burnout, internal conflict, and intense public scrutiny.
In a statement to the press, Malone described the toll of his work on the committee as “hundreds of hours of uncompensated labor, incredible hate from many quarters, hostile press, internal bickering, weaponized leaking, [and] sabotage,” concluding, “I have better things to do.”
Malone said a recent dispute with a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) was “the last straw.” According to his comments, “After Andrew trashing me with the press, I am done with the CDC and ACIP. Suffice to say, I do not like drama.” He added that he would “respectfully decline” any future invitation to rejoin the panel should it be reconstituted.
Health and Human Services spokesperson Andrew Nixon rejected Malone’s statement.
Observers have noted that his departure comes amid significant uncertainty for ACIP. A recent federal court decision has reportedly limited the committee’s ability to operate and make appointments, constraining its influence over national vaccine policy.
Given these challenges, Malone’s decision to step away appears to reflect a broader frustration among federal advisory members. As long as administrative and legal obstacles prevent meaningful reform, genuine authority within advisory bodies like ACIP remains limited.
Further developments on the future of the committee and its role in shaping U.S. immunization policy are expected in the coming weeks.
