"Two administration officials said Jim O’Neill, the second-in-command at the Department of Health and Human Services, would supplant Susan Monarez, a longtime government scientist. O’Neill, a former investment executive who also served at the federal health department under President George W. Bush, does not have a medical background. "
Jim O'Neill's lack of medical or scientific background:
"Unlike most past CDC directors, O'Neill is not a physician or scientist. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in humanities. This contrasts with the previous director, Susan Monarez, who had a PhD in microbiology.
Investment and libertarian ties: O'Neill spent much of his career in Silicon Valley investment, working with billionaire Peter Thiel. Critics point to his libertarian-leaning views and past statements about deregulation, including suggesting that drugs be approved for market based on safety alone, without effectiveness data.
