In a recent announcement, California Governor Gavin Newsom revealed the strategic recruitment of two former high-ranking officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These individuals, who parted ways with their roles due to conflicts with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., are poised to play pivotal roles in advancing California’s public health landscape.

Susan Monarez, the erstwhile CDC director, alongside Deb Houry, the former chief medical officer at the CDC, have been tapped to collaborate with the California Department of Public Health. Their mission is to spearhead the launch of the Public Health Network Innovation Exchange (PHNIX). This initiative is designed to bolster the state’s public health infrastructure through innovative strategies and a reinforced commitment to scientific integrity.

Earlier this year, Houry made headlines when she resigned, citing her objection to what she termed Kennedy’s politicization of public health measures. Monarez, an experienced public health professional, faced termination shortly after assuming her role as CDC director. Her dismissal, as she recounts, stemmed from her refusal to endorse alterations to vaccine policy that she believed were unfounded.

In response to these claims, Kennedy has refuted the allegations, asserting to lawmakers that Monarez had lost his confidence and was therefore deemed unreliable.

Governor Newsom’s office has issued a statement emphasizing the goals of PHNIX, highlighting its commitment to “modernize public health infrastructure and maintain trust in science-driven decision-making.” This initiative underscores California’s dedication to leading by example in the realm of public health, guided by expertise and evidence-based practices.

“The Public Health Network Innovation Exchange is expected to bring together the best science, the best tools, and the best minds to advance public health,” Newsom said. “By bringing on expert scientific leaders to partner in this launch, we’re strengthening collaboration and laying the groundwork for a modern public health infrastructure that will offer trust and stability in scientific data not just across California, but nationally and globally.”

Katelyn Jetelina, CEO of Your Local Epidemiologist, will also be joining the initiative. Jetelina said the current “chaotic health information environment” necessitated an initiative like PHNIX.

“I am deeply excited to bring my experience in health technology and innovation to support PHNIX,” Monarez said in a statement. “California has an extraordinary concentration of talent, technology, and investment, and this effort is about putting those strengths to work for the public good—modernizing how public health operates, accelerating innovation, and building a healthier, more resilient future for all Californians.”

“California will advance practical, scalable solutions that strengthen public health within the state and across states—showing how states can modernize data, share capacity, and work together more efficiently, while remaining focused on protecting people and communities,” Houry said.

Newsom’s office said PHNIX will focus on public health preparedness by developing advanced technology and funding future frameworks. These will include improved systems for detecting trends and protecting privacy; focusing on artificial intelligence; and proposing designs for multi-state and global health partnerships with private and academic sectors.

Since Kennedy’s confirmation, California has been part of other state-level health initiatives, independent from the federal government. These include the West Coast Health Alliance with Oregon and Washington, which aims to develop public health guidance rooted in “scientific expertise.”