DeSantis supports Florida's Ladapo for CDC director position

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing for Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Florida's Surgeon General, to become the new head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). DeSantis made his intentions clear over the weekend by publicly urging President Donald Trump to appoint Ladapo for the position. DeSantis praised Ladapo’s qualities, saying he has the courage to do what is right. He believes that appointing Ladapo would signify a commitment to improving America's health. The position of CDC Director has been uncertain since Trump’s initial nominee, Dave Weldon, withdrew when he didn't have enough Senate support. If appointed, Ladapo would likely take the CDC in a different direction. He has often disagreed with CDC guidelines during his time as Florida's health chief. For example, he has voiced concerns about mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which the CDC endorses. Recently, he suggested parents should decide whether to send their children to school during a measles outbreak, which contradicted CDC recommendations. Ladapo has also been advocating for the removal of fluoride from drinking water, citing potential risks to children's development. This aligns with similar calls from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Some local governments in Florida have already acted on this issue. DeSantis has shown strong support for Ladapo, frequently praising him. Other potential candidates for the CDC job include Michael Burgess, a former Texas congressman. The CDC has not yet commented on the ongoing discussions about the director position.