Trump’s freeze on all government health communications is a reckless misstep, says Dr. Tom Frieden

Sally Kohn : President Trump 's freeze on all government health communications is a dangerous move.

Kohn says the president has broad control over federal agencies, including their ability to communicate.

She says it's the latest case of politics interfering with public health in the U.S. She says Congress should establish an independent federal agency tasked with health data and emergency communicationKohn: Congress should set up an independent agency to ensure critical information remains untouchable by political forces.

While officials debate messaging, threats like bird flu and foodborne outbreaks continue to evolve. Science cannot afford to wait for permission to speak. If this moment teaches us anything, it is that the rules must change. Public health is not a matter of political convenience. It is a matter of national security. Brian C. Castrucci is an epidemiologist, public health practitioner and president of the de Beaumont Foundation , a charitable organization dedicated to strengthening public health. He previously served in leadership roles in state and city health departments. Copyright 2025 U.S. News & World Report .