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Dr. Ralph Abraham Appointed Principal Deputy Director of the CDC
WASHINGTON – January 26, 2026 – Ralph Abraham, M.D., officially assumed the role of Principal Deputy Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on January 5, 2026, following his swearing-in ceremony on December 15, 2025, by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F.Kennedy, Jr. [[1]] This appointment marks a meaningful moment for the CDC, signaling a renewed focus on its core mission of protecting public health.
A Seasoned Medical Professional
Dr. Abraham brings nearly three decades of experiance as a medical practitioner to the CDC. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Surgeon General of louisiana, where he was responsible for crafting health policy, advocating for disease prevention, and coordinating health initiatives across the state. His background also includes extensive experience in family medicine and humanitarian work in challenging environments, including Afghanistan, Haiti, africa, and the Amazon rainforest.
political and Medical Background
Dr. Abraham’s career path is diverse, encompassing both medical practice and public service. He earned his M.D. from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine after initially practicing as a veterinarian for ten years, graduating from the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. He also served as a U.S. Representative for Louisiana’s fifth congressional district from 2015 to 2021, participating in committees focused on armed services, agriculture, and science and technology.
A Renewed Focus for the CDC
Secretary Kennedy emphasized the importance of Dr. Abraham’s appointment, stating that the CDC’s primary duty is to safeguard the American people from infectious diseases and that Dr. Abraham possesses the “integrity, courage, and decades of medical experience” to restore the agency’s standing as a trusted public health authority.