Key facts
- HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and deputies have softened their rhetoric towards department staff.
- Employees report a less hostile work environment but remain skeptical of policy changes.
- The department is undertaking a hiring blitz to return to pre-DOGE staffing levels.
- Controversial figures have been removed from leadership positions at the FDA.
- Concerns persist among CDC and FDA staff regarding the influence of political ideology on scientific decisions.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his deputies have adopted a gentler approach with department staff this year, a shift that has been noticed by employees but not always met with renewed trust. While the softer rhetoric and a focus on hiring after significant downsizing are apparent, many federal employees and contractors believe deeper operational changes are lacking.
The department underwent a period of significant upheaval, including mass layoffs and what some described as a hostile work environment, particularly at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recent leadership changes, such as the departure of controversial figures from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the appointment of Jay Bhattacharya as interim head of the CDC, signal an attempt to move past this dysfunction.
Kennedy has stated his intention to return to pre-downsizing staffing levels and is actively hiring. However, concerns persist among career scientists and staff at agencies like the CDC and FDA regarding the potential influence of political ideology on scientific communications and policy decisions, particularly concerning vaccine recommendations and drug reviews.
Despite ongoing skepticism, some employees acknowledge an improvement in the work environment, citing a return to routine and a less overtly hostile atmosphere. Leaders like Bhattacharya have expressed inspiration from staff and promised to rehire those let go during previous purges, while also advocating for benefits like remote work flexibility. New political appointees at agencies like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) are also being viewed positively for their perceived dedication to the agency's mission.