DeGette Statement on CDC Shooting and Failure of Leadership by RFK Jr., Trump Administration

August 14, 2025 Press Release DENVER, CO — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement in the wake of the shooting in Atlanta at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Over 500 bullets were fired at the CDC with more than 150 of them hitting windows, and one police officer lost his life. It took Secretary Kennedy over 18 hours to respond, and even then, his leadership came up short. His rhetoric has led to a distrust of science, particularly around the COVID-19 vaccine and other immunizations. The men and women who work at the CDC deserve much more than empty words when their place of work came under direct fire from an individual who reportedly had a deep distrust of the CDC. “The response to this incident from the Secretary and from the Trump Administration continues a pattern of failed leadership at the highest levels of our government. They are failing to stand up for Americans’ wellbeing, including the hardworking people at the CDC. Instead, they are choosing to peddle conspiracy theories and unproven treatments. It is unacceptable, and it must change because the safety of our citizens and dedicated public servants across HHS depend on it.” ###