Dr. Dave Weldon, born August 31, 1953, in Amityville, New York, is an American physician and former Republican congressman. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from Stony Brook University in 1978 and a Doctor of Medicine from the University at Buffalo in 1981. Weldon served in the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1987 and continued in the Army Reserve until 1992.

In 1994, Weldon was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Florida’s 15th district, serving until 2009. During his tenure, he was known for his conservative positions on fiscal and social issues and was involved in health-related legislative efforts. After leaving Congress, Weldon returned to medical practice in Florida.

On November 22, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Dr. Weldon as Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This nomination marks the first time a CDC director will require Senate confirmation, following recent legislative changes.

Weldon’s nomination has garnered attention due to his past skepticism regarding vaccine safety and his association with anti-vaccine advocates. As a congressman, he raised concerns about the safety of certain vaccines and proposed transferring vaccine safety research from the CDC to a separate agency.

Supporters highlight his medical background and legislative experience, suggesting he could bring a fresh perspective to the CDC. Critics, however, express concerns that his views may undermine public health initiatives, particularly vaccination programs.

If confirmed, Dr. Weldon will lead the CDC in addressing public health challenges, including infectious disease outbreaks and chronic health issues. His leadership approach and policies are anticipated to significantly influence the agency’s direction and public health strategies.