CDC Operates Zombie Programs After Trump Administration Layoffs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is currently operating several zombie programs that receive congressional funding but lack the staff to function. These dormant initiatives, which include programs for epilepsy, smoking cessation, and Alzheimer's disease, were decimated during mass layoffs in April 2025. Those cuts were ordered by the Donald Trump administration and led by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency as part of a failed reorganization of the Department of Health and Human Services.

While some layoffs were reversed or shifted to paid administrative leave due to ongoing litigation, critical research and coordination roles remain vacant. Democratic lawmakers allege that these staffing freezes violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. New CDC Director Erica Schwartz has faced pressure to restart these activities and has pledged to follow the law.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stated an intent to hire 12,000 new workers to address chronic diseases. However, union representatives report that significant hiring has not occurred and that laid-off employees are being stalled from returning to their roles.