Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing for President Donald Trump to consider appointing Sunshine State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director. DeSantis believes that Ladapo could make a greater impact for the state at the CDC than in his current role. The governor’s proposal comes as Trump’s initial pick for the position, former U.S. Rep. Dr. Dave Weldon, had his nomination withdrawn due to lack of Senate confirmation votes. DeSantis sees Ladapo as a transformative and history-making pick, asserting that his appointment could significantly benefit Florida and the nation.
DeSantis has actively championed Ladapo for a prominent health-related role before, having previously suggested him as a potential secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Despite DeSantis’ endorsement, Trump ultimately selected Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for that position. After Weldon’s nomination for CDC director was withdrawn, leaving the position vacant, DeSantis reaffirmed his belief in Ladapo’s qualifications for a significant health-related role in the government. The governor’s advocacy for Ladapo reflects a desire to see an individual he deems competent and courageous lead important public health initiatives in the nation.
The governor’s support for Ladapo as CDC director is grounded in his belief that substantial changes need to be made within the organization. DeSantis is critical of the current state of the CDC and believes that Ladapo’s appointment could lead to an overhaul of the agency that would be beneficial for Florida and the nation. By choosing Ladapo for the position, DeSantis envisions a revitalization of the CDC’s mission and a response to public health challenges that is more effective and focused on serving the American people. The governor’s proposal highlights his commitment to finding innovative solutions to pressing issues in public health.
DeSantis’ advocacy for Ladapo also reflects a broader effort to advance his state’s interests on the national stage. The governor has positioned Ladapo as a key figure in Florida’s efforts to return taxpayer funds to the federal government and promote a vision of improved health outcomes for Americans. DeSantis sees Ladapo as an individual with the courage and determination to make difficult decisions and prioritize public health in a way that reflects the values of his administration. Through his promotion of Ladapo for critical health-related positions, DeSantis aims to position Florida as a leader in shaping national health policy.
As DeSantis continues to push for Ladapo’s appointment to the CDC director position, he emphasizes the transformative and history-making potential of such a selection. The governor envisions Ladapo as a figure who can lead the CDC in a new direction, focusing on innovative solutions to public health challenges and prioritizing the health and well-being of Americans. DeSantis’ support for Ladapo reflects his belief in the surgeon general’s capabilities and his commitment to ensuring that the CDC is led by an individual who is both competent and courageous in tackling complex health issues. Through his advocacy, DeSantis seeks to position Ladapo as a powerful voice for Florida and a champion for the nation’s health and well-being.
