Senator Cassidy Defends CDC Pick, Accuses Katie Couric of Demeaning Nominee

During a contentious interview, Senator Bill Cassidy, the physician-led chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, pushed back against Katie Couric’s suggestion that his CDC nominee, Dr. Erica G. Schwartz, was merely “adequate.” Cassidy argued Schwartz could be a strong leader and condemned Couric for “demeaning” her. He acknowledged possible friction with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. if Schwartz follows scientific guidance that conflicts with the secretary’s stance.

Cassidy also recounted his earlier vote to advance Kennedy’s nomination despite reservations about vaccine misinformation, stating that if he were president Kennedy would not serve as HHS secretary. When pressed about reaffirming his support for Kennedy, Cassidy offered no definitive answer. Couric expressed frustration after the exchange, noting the senator’s lack of re-election pressure did not make him more forthcoming.